AGENDA
Special City Council Meeting
Council Chambers, Chowchilla City Hall
130 S. Second Street, Chowchilla, CA 93610
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
Open Session: 6:00 p.m.
City Hall is now open to the public for business. The City Council Chamber is OPEN to the public for City Council meetings, using the current COVID-19 prevention provisions.
City Council meetings will also be available to view and participate via Zoom. Please read Page 4 of this agenda packet for Zoom login and participation information.
Agendas for all City Council meetings are posted at least 72 hours prior to the meeting in the kiosk just outside of City Hall, 130 S. Second St., Chowchilla, CA 93610.
Agendas for Special Meetings are posted 24 hours prior to the meeting.
Any writing or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for public inspection on the city website at www.CityofChowchilla.org.
The City of Chowchilla complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA of 1990). The Council Chambers is accessible to the physically disabled. If you need special assistance, please call (559) 665-8615, ext. 102 at least 4 days prior to a regular meeting, 1 day for a special meeting.
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL:
Mayor: John Chavez
Mayor Pro Tem: Ray Barragan
Council Members: Waseem Ahmed, Diana Palmer, Kelly Smith City staff and contract employees present at the meeting will be noted in the minutes.
CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Additions and/or Deletions:
OPEN SESSION – 6:00 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
INVOCATION:
PRESENTATIONS/WORKSHOP - Section 1
PUBLIC ADDRESS
City Council Meeting Agenda March 22, 2022
This time is reserved for members of the audience to address the City Council on items of interest that are not on the agenda and that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Council.
It is recommended that speakers limit their comments to no more than 3 minutes each and it is requested that no comments be made during this period on items on the Agenda.
Members of the public who are joining the meeting via Zoom and would like to address the Council on items on the agenda should follow the policy on page 4 of this agenda packet.
The Council is prohibited by law from taking any action on matters discussed that are not on the agenda. No adverse conclusions should be drawn if the Council does not respond to public comment at this time.
COUNCIL AND STAFF VERBAL REPORTS – Section 2
2.1 COUNCIL VERBAL REPORTS
Legislative, Collaborative Agency, Ad Hoc
2.2 STAFF VERBAL REPORTS
CONSENT CALENDAR – Section 3
All items listed under Consent Calendar are considered to be routine and will be enacted by one motion.
For discussion of any Consent Item, it will be made a part of the Regular Agenda at the request of any member of the City Council or any person in the audience.
3.1 Approval of the March 8, 2022 City Council Meeting Minutes (McClendon)
3.2 Consideration and Adoption of a City Council Resolution Authorizing Continued use of Remote Teleconferencing Provisions (AB 361 and Government Code Section 54953) (McClendon)
3.3 Consideration and Adoption of a City Council Resolution Accepting Budget Amendments as Part of the 2020-2021 Fiscal Year (Williams) PUBLIC HEARINGS – Section 4
DEFERRED BUSINES – Section 5
NEW BUSINESS – Section 6
6.1 Consideration and Adoption of a City Council Resolution Accepting General Plan Annual Progress Report and Annual Housing Element Progress Report for the 2021 Year (Hamilton)
6.2 General (Verbal) Update Regarding the State of Emergency and COVID-19; Direction and/or Action (Pruett)
City Council Meeting Agenda March 22, 2022
ANNOUNCEMENTS – Section 7
MAR 26 CHOWCHILLA FAIR KICKOFF DINNER, CHOWCHILLA FAIRGROUNDS, 6PM APR 9 K-9 BENEFIT DINNER, EASTMAN HALL, 5:30PM
APR 12 CITY COUNCIL MEETING, CITY HALL, 7PM
APR 16 EASTER EGG SCRAMBLE, EDWARD RAY PARK, 8:30AM
MAY 21 SPRING FESTIVAL ARMED FORCES DAY PARADE, ROBERTSON BOULEVARD, 10AM
ADJOURNMENT
I, Joann McClendon, CMC, City Clerk, do hereby declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing agenda was posted at Chowchilla City Hall, 130 S Second Street, Chowchilla, CA and made available for public review on this 18th day of March, 2022 at or before 4:00pm.
Joann McClendon, CMC, City Clerk
*SPECIAL NOTICE REGARDING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DUE TO
COVID-19*
Public meetings are still open to the public to attend in-person.
However, if you wish to attend remotely, please read the message below.
Consistent with AB 361 and Government Code section 54953, this meeting will be held remotely. Members of the public may access the meeting using the following information:
Zoom login instructions
Use the following url to start Zoom:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83602278941?pwd=TWZnTXY5NlMwb3NyVzFtRnJYd GxSQT09
Passcode: 47 35 11
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To participate by phone, dial: 1-877-853-5247
Webinar ID: 836 0227 8941
Passcode: 47 35 11
Staff highly recommends that participants log into Zoom 15 minutes before the meeting begins to perform an audio check and to make sure you have optimal internet connection.
Options to participate / view / and listen to the meeting:
• If you wish to speak to the Committee on an item using the Zoom platform on your computer/laptop or smart phone, please use the “raise hand” icon and you will be unmuted when it is your turn to speak.
Please provide your name when unmuted. You will be able to speak to the Committee for up to 3 minutes.
• If you are calling in to the meeting only (no camera/video) and you wish to make a comment, press *9 to “raise your hand” and *6 to unmute yourself.
MINUTES
Regular City Council Meeting
Council Chambers, Chowchilla City Hall
130 S. Second Street, Chowchilla, CA 93610
Tuesday, March 8, 2022
Closed Session: 6:00 p.m.
Open Session: 7:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL: 6:01PM
Mayor: John Chavez
Mayor Pro Tem: Ray Barragan
Council Members: Waseem Ahmed, Diana Palmer, Kelly Smith City staff and contract employees present: City Administrator Rod Pruett, City Attorney Mary Lerner, Police Chief David A. Riviere, Jr., Fire Chief Fred Gaumnitz, Public Works Director Jason Rogers, Recreation & Community Outreach Manager Stacy Wisener, IT System Administrator Kurt Wlodarczyk, City Clerk Joann McClendon
CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Additions and/or Deletions:
Motion by Council Member Ahmed, Seconded by Council Member Palmer to Approve the Agenda as Presented. Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote.
PUBLIC ADDRESS – CLOSED SESSION
No one spoke.
CLOSED SESSION – 6:03 PM
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION – Significant Exposure to Litigation Pursuant to Paragraph (2) or (3) of Subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9
Potential cases: 2
OPEN SESSION – 7:07 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
INVOCATION: Jaye Etheridge
CLOSED SESSION REPORT: Nothing to report.
PRESENTATIONS/WORKSHOP - Section 1
Item 3.1
CLICK HERE
TO RETURN TO
THE AGENDA
City Council Meeting Minutes March 8, 2022
PUBLIC ADDRESS
No one spoke.
COUNCIL AND STAFF VERBAL REPORTS – Section 2
2.1 COUNCIL VERBAL REPORTS
Legislative, Collaborative Agency, Ad Hoc
Council Member Smith attended the Rotary Crab Feed and Ed Ray Park for the ribbon cutting ceremony for the refurbished recreation building and Ed Ray Day.
Council Member Palmer also attended the Ed Ray Day event; many people commented that they would like to see the display boards hung on the walls of the refurbished building or somewhere so they can be viewed by more people. At the MCTC meeting she attended, they discussed the District 2 Committee Member vacancy; Measure T Committee voted to have the measure be “continuous” until voters vote it out via ballot measure; discussed the bipartisan infrastructure law and its nuances. She attended the Chowchilla Athletic Foundation Hall of Fame dinner where past athletes were recognized. And she attended the Chowchilla Task Force meeting today.
Council Member Ahmed also attended the Ed Ray Day event and ribbon cutting of the refurbished building. He thanked all of the people who helped in beautifying the building and thanked Stacy Wisener for putting together the event. He also attended the Auto Zone ad hoc meeting with City staff.
Mayor Chavez attended the Ed Ray Day event and ribbon cutting and noted that Netflix is making a documentary of the incident. He was currently at the ICSC Monterey Conference.
2.2 STAFF VERBAL REPORTS
City Administrator Pruett met with Caltrans and City/County of Madera for their standard quarterly executive meeting. Separately, he then met with Caltrans about the roundabout where there is a plan to work together to move forward. Met with NBS regarding the development impact fee study, covering most areas, needing to finalize a few items and should be completed by the end of this fiscal year. Attended an Autozone meeting with staff and ad hoc, a Site Plan Review meeting; met with the State Housing and Community Development and staff regarding Humboldt Storm Drain project; Full Circle Renewables is coming back to get their project moving forward; Sullivan & Sagouspe is also back with a fully funded project. He is currently at the ICSC in Monterey Conference.
Recreation & Community Engagement Manager Wisener thanked all who were present at the Ed Ray Day event; received great responses on the refurbished recreation building, thanked staff for all their efforts.
Public Works Director Rogers attended the Ed Ray Day Ceremony with his family. It was a good event and jis kids liked the displays as they allowed them to learn. He thanked Stacy Wisener for putting on a great event, our city volunteers for their work on the center and our Public Works staff for completing the final touches on the building.
He and the City Administrator have been working with HCD staff to secure the Authorization to Use Grant Funds (AUGF) related to CDBG funding for the Humboldt Storm Drainage Project. As City Council Meeting Minutes March 8, 2022
a result of our meetings and discussions, we received the AUGF today. We will be able to advertise for bids so that we can begin construction this summer.
Regarding our Clean California Local Grant Application, last week Caltrans announced grant awards. Unfortunately, the City did not receive a grant award. However, Caltrans District 6 has allocated $1,000,000 for our Median Beautification and Robertson Pedestrian Improvements Project. Caltrans is currently drafting an agreement for use of these funds.
The contractor is making good progress on the PD Fence Project and expects to be completed within 3-4 weeks depending on weather.
CONSENT CALENDAR – Section 3
3.1 Approval of the February 22, 2022 City Council Meeting Minutes (McClendon)
3.2 Consideration and Approval of the February 2022 Check Register Report (Williams)
3.3 Second Reading with Option to Waive the Second Reading of an Ordinance to Adopt the Development Agreement for the Rancho Calera Project (Hamilton)
3.4 Consideration and Adoption of a City Council Resolution (16-22) Authorizing Continued use of Remote Teleconferencing Provisions (AB 361 and Government Code Section 54953) (McClendon)
3.5 Consideration and Adoption of a City Council Resolution (17-22) Authorizing Staff to Apply for Federal Funding Under FTA Section 5311 and Authorizing the City Administrator or Designee to Sign the Required Fiscal Year 2022 Certifications and Assurances for Federal Transportation Assistance (FTA) Section 5311 Programs, Projects and Grants (McClendon)
Motion by Council Member Palmer, Seconded by Council Member Smith to Approve the Consent Calendar as Presented. Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote.
PUBLIC HEARINGS – Section 4
DEFERRED BUSINES – Section 5
NEW BUSINESS – Section 6
6.1 Consideration and Adoption of a City Council Resolution Amending the Salary Scale of the Director of Recreation and Community Engagement to the Correct Pay Grade of M11, and Eliminate the Community Relations Manager Classification (McClendon) Motion by Council Member Palmer, Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Barragan to Approve City Council Resolution # 18-22, Amending the Salary Scale of the Director of Recreation and Community Engagement to the Correct Pay Grade of M11, and Eliminate the Community Relations Manager Classification. Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote.
City Council Meeting Minutes March 8, 2022
6.2 Consideration and Adoption of a City Council Resolution Approving an Amendment to an Application for Funding and the Execution of a Grant and any Amendments Thereto from the 2019 Funding Year of the State CDBG Program (Rogers) Motion by Council Member Ahmed, Seconded by Council Member Smith to Approve City Council Resolution #19-22, Approving an Amendment to an Application for Funding and the Execution of a Grant and any Amendments Thereto from the 2019 Funding Year of the State CDBG Program.
Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote.
6.3 General (Verbal) Update Regarding the State of Emergency and COVID-19; Direction and/or Action (Pruett)
ANNOUNCEMENTS – Section 7
MAR 16 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, CITY HALL, 7PM
MAR 19 BEAUTIFY CHOWCHILLA, ED RAY PARK/SKATE PARK, 9AM
CHOWCHILLA LITTLE LEAGUE OPENING CEREMONIES, RC WISENER PARK MAR 26 CHOWCHILLA FAIR KICKOFF DINNER, CHOWCHILLA FAIRGROUNDS, 6PM APR 9 K-9 BENEFIT DINNER, EASTMAN HALL, 5:30PM
APR 16 EASTER EGG SCRAMBLE, EDWARD RAY PARK, 8:30AM
MAY 21 SPRING FESTIVAL ARMED FORCES DAY PARADE, ROBERTSON BOULEVARD, 10AM
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Chavez Adjournment the March 8, 2022 City Council Regular Meeting in Memory of Mr.
Ronald W. Harris at 7:37 p.m.
ATTEST: APPROVED:
Joann McClendon, CMC, City Clerk Mayor John Chavez
REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
Item 3.2
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TO RETURN TO
THE AGENDA
Meeting of: March 22, 2022
AGENDA SECTION: Consent
SUBJECT: Consideration of a Resolution Authorizing Continued Use of Remote Teleconferencing Provisions Pursuant to AB 361 and Government Code Section 54953
PREPARED BY: Joann McClendon, City Clerk
ATTACHMENTS: Resolution
REVIEWED BY
ADMINISTRATOR ☒ REVIEWED BYATTORNEY ☒ REVIEWED BY FINANCE ☒ RECOMMENDATION:
That the City Council adopt a resolution authorizing the continued use of remote teleconferencing provisions pursuant to AB 361 and Government Code section 54953.
BACKGROUND:
On September 16, 2021, the California legislature passed Assembly Bill (“AB”) 361, which amends Government Code, section 54953 and permits a local agency to use teleconferencing to conduct its meetings in any of the following circumstances:
(A) the legislative body holds a meeting during a proclaimed state of emergency, and state or local officials have imposed or recommended measures to promote social distancing; or (B) the legislative body holds a meeting during a proclaimed state of emergency for the purpose of determining, by majority vote, whether as a result of the emergency, meeting in person would present imminent risks to the health or safety of attendees; or (C) the legislative body holds a meeting during a proclaimed state of emergency and has determined, by majority vote, pursuant to subparagraph (B), that, as a result of the emergency, meeting in person would present imminent risks to the health or safety of attendees.
REASON FOR RECOMMENDATION:
In order for the City Council to continue use of teleconferencing as allowed by AB 361, it must first adopt the resolution allowing the City Council to conduct teleconferenced meetings for a period of thirty (30) days. In addition, AB 361 requires the City to continue to make specified findings every thirty (30) days thereafter. The last time this was presented on the agenda was March 8, 2022, or, 14 days ago. If we would have waited until April 12, we would have been out of compliance with AB361.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None foreseen at time of report.
ALTERNATIVES:
Not adopt the resolution and revert to the original Brown Act rules for posting agendas when a member of the council remotely joins a City Council meeting.
ACTIONS FOLLOWING APPROVAL:
Continue to place the item on the City Council meeting agenda every 30-days to continue with the AB361 guidelines without disruption.
COUNCIL RESOLUTION # -22
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHOWCHILLA, CALIFORNIA AUTHORIZING CONTINUED USE OF REMOTE TELECONFERENCING PROVISIONS (AB 361 AND GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54953)
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Chowchilla (“City Council”) is committed to open and transparent government, and full compliance with the Ralph M. Brown Act (“Brown Act”); and WHEREAS, the Brown Act generally requires that a public agency take certain actions in order to use teleconferencing to attend a public meeting virtually; and WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes that a local emergency persists due to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic; and
WHEREAS, the California Legislature has recognized the ongoing state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic and has responded by creating an additional means for public meetings to be held via teleconference (inclusive of internet-based virtual meetings); and WHEREAS, on September 16, 2021, the California legislature passed Assembly Bill (“AB”) 361, which amends Government Code, section 54953 and permits a local agency to use teleconferencing to conduct its meetings in any of the following circumstances: (A) the legislative body holds a meeting during a proclaimed state of emergency, and state or local officials have imposed or recommended measures to promote social distancing; (B) the legislative body holds a meeting during a proclaimed state of emergency for the purpose of determining, by majority vote, whether as a result of the emergency, meeting in person would present imminent risks to the health or safety of attendees; or (C) the legislative body holds a meeting during a proclaimed state of emergency and has determined, by majority vote, pursuant to subparagraph (B), that, as a result of the emergency, meeting in person would present imminent risks to the health or safety of attendees; and
WHEREAS, in order for the City Council to use teleconferencing as allowed by AB 361 after October 1, 2021, it must first adopt findings in a resolution, allowing the City Council to conduct teleconferenced meetings for a period of thirty (30) days; and WHEREAS, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for the State of California due to the COVID-19 pandemic in his order entitled “Proclamation of a State of Emergency,” signed March 4, 2020; and/or
WHEREAS, the California Occupational and Safety Health Administration (OSHA) continues to recommend certain social distancing requirements, as described in detail in California Code of Regulations Title 8, section 3205 Covid Prevention; and/or WHEREAS, Madera County Health Officer, Dr. Simon Paul issued a letter on October 8, 2021 recommending physical distancing measures by way of utilizing teleconferencing options for public meetings to facilitate participation in public affairs and encourage participants to protect themselves and others from the COVID-19 virus; and
WHEREAS, on March 8, 2022, February 8, 2022, January 11, 2022, December 14, 2021, November 23, 2021, and October 26, 2021, the City Council continued use of the remote teleconferencing provisions originally adopted on September 28, 2021; and WHEREAS, the City Council hereby finds that the state and local emergencies have caused and will continue to cause imminent risks to the health or safety of attendees; and WHEREAS, the City Council is conducting its meetings through the use of telephonic and internet-based services so that members of the public may observe and participate in meetings and offer public comment.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the recitals set forth above are true and correct and fully incorporated into this Resolution by reference.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council is conducting meetings during a state of emergency and the County of Madera and OSHA recommend measures to promote social distancing.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council has determined that given the state of emergency, holding in-person only meetings would present imminent risks to the health or safety of attendees.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the actions taken by the City Council through this resolution shall be applied to all City committees governed by the Brown Act unless otherwise desired by that committee.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the City Council authorizes the City Manager or their designee(s) to continue to take all actions necessary to conduct City Council meetings in accordance with AB 361 and Government Code section 54953(e) and all other applicable provisions of the Brown Act, using teleconferencing for a period of thirty (30) days from the adoption of this Resolution after which the City Council will again reconsider the circumstances of the state of emergency.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Chowchilla this 22nd day of March, 2022 by the following vote to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
APPROVED:
Mayor John Chavez
ATTEST:
Joann McClendon, CMC
City Clerk
REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
Item 3.3
CLICK HERE
TO RETURN TO
THE AGENDA
Meeting of: March 22, 2022
AGENDA SECTION: Consent
SUBJECT:
PREPARED BY:
ATTACHMENTS:
Consideration of a Resolution Accepting Budget Amendments as Part of the 2020-2021 Fiscal year
Irene Fisher, Accounting Manager
Kerri Williams, Finance Director
Resolution
Exhibit A – List of Budget Amendments with Justification
REVIEWED BY
ADMINISTRATOR ☒ REVIEWED BYATTORNEY ☒ REVIEWED BY FINANCE ☒ RECOMMENDATION:
City Staff recommends the City Council approve the resolution accepting the Budget Amendments for fiscal year 2020-2021.
BACKGROUND:
In June 2020, Council approved the fiscal year 2020/2021 Operational and Capital Outlay Budget. A budget is an estimate of expenditures and revenues for the upcoming year and is monitored throughout the year for unforeseen activities. Annually, a mid-year review of the budget is performed to identify modifications that need to be made to the budget to reflect year-to-date activity and resulting year-end projections.
Each year during the audit process, there may be proposed adjustments by the auditors that would require a budget amendment. If those budget amendments exceed the $50,000 threshold that is delegated to the City Administrator per the Resolution that approved the original budget, those budget amendments will be brought to Council for approval.
REASON FOR RECOMMENDATION:
During the course of the Fiscal Year 2020/2021 audit, the auditors identified some adjustments that needed to be made due to the implementation of GASB 84, which deals with the reporting of Trust and Agency Funds.
We use a Trust Fund to track developer/project deposits and pass-through costs as well as railroad spur pass-through costs and related revenues. GASB 84 now says those costs and developer/project reimbursements should be considered revenues and expenses of the General Fund. We are making these adjustments to be in compliance with GASB 84.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact as the Expenses are billed out to the developers/projects.
ALTERNATIVES:
Do not make the proposed audit change and potentially receive a modified audit opinion ACTIONS FOLLOWING APPROVAL:
The Finance Director or designated staff will post Exhibit A into the City’s Financial system.
COUNCIL RESOLUTION # -22
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHOWCHILLA, CALIFORNIA ACCEPTING BUDGET AMENDMENTS AS PART OF THE 2020-2021 FISCAL YEAR WHEREAS, the City Council adopted the final budget in June 2020 for the Fiscal Year 2020/2021; and
WHEREAS; the City is having to Reclassify funds that are reimbursed by Planning and Railroad Spur Accounts from Trust Accounts to Expenses and Revenues due to GASB-84; and WHEREAS, the City Council now desires to reflect the recommended changes as shown in Exhibit A to this resolution which are incorporated by reference herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the City of Chowchilla that it hereby resolves, finds and orders:
1. The budget is amended as shown in Exhibit A to this resolution.
2. The Finance Director is hereby directed to take all steps necessary to properly record the budget amendments.
3. The resolution is effective immediately upon adoption. **********
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Chowchilla this 22nd day of March, 2022 by the following vote to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
APPROVED:
Mayor John Chavez
ATTEST:
Joann McClendon, CMC
City Clerk
EXHIBIT A
ACCOUNT NUMBER
ACCOUNT
DESCRIPTION EXPENSE REVENUE COMMENT
General Fund
100-1600-0000-3332-00 Bad Debt 26,036 To Move Bad Debt From 701 100-1712-0000-3364-000 Contracted Services 33,865 For Railroad Spur Accounts paid by those that use the Spur 100-1712-0000-8006-000
Rail Road Spur
Revenues 33,865 For Railroad Spur Accounts paid by those that use the Spur 100-4705-0000-3365-000
Developer Project
Expenses 381,373 For Trust Accounts that are paid by Developers 100-4705-0000-8217-000
Developer Project
Revenues 367,257 For Trust Accounts that are paid by Developers 100-1600-0000-8772-000 Collections Proceeds 836
441,274 401,958
REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
Item 6.1
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TO RETURN TO
THE AGENDA
Meeting of: March 22, 2022
AGENDA SECTION: New Business
SUBJECT: Consideration to Adopt a City Council Resolution Accepting the General Plan Annual Progress Report and the Annual Housing Element Progress Report for the 2021 Year
PREPARED BY: Annalisa Perea, City Planner
REVIEWED BY: Mark Hamilton, Community & Economic Development Director ATTACHMENTS: Resolution, General Plan Annual Progress Report, Annual Housing Element Progress Report
REVIEWED BY
ADMINISTRATOR ☒ REVIEWED BYATTORNEY ☒ REVIEWED BY FINANCE ☒ RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the City Council consider the General Plan Annual Progress Report and the Housing Element Progress Report for the 2021 year and approve the resolution accepting the reports.
BACKGROUND:
The General Plan Annual Progress Report (APR) and the Annual Housing Element Progress Report are documents reviewed by the local legislative body that summarize the City’s progress with implementing the policies and programs from the City’s General Plan and Housing Element Goals. These reports are used to inform the public and other various agencies of how the community is performing to meet our goals and housing targets.
The General Plan APR gives the California Office of Planning and Research (OPR) the opportunity to identify statewide trends in land use decision-making and how local planning and development activities relate to statewide planning goals and policies. The Annual Housing Element Report informs the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) of various types of projects and programs moving forward within the community that assist the community with growing its housing stock. These reports work interchangeably and required to be submitted annually to either OPR or HCD to remain eligible to receive future grants. After accepted by the City Council, staff will submit these progress reports to the respective agencies.
For the year 2021, the City of Chowchilla processed two Tentative Subdivision Map applications during 2021. The two developments that were processed and approved during 2021 are the Rancho Calera Development and Oleander Terrace Subdivision. The Rancho Calera Development is a 2,042-unit project with an anticipated 10-15-year buildout timeline. In comparison, the Oleander Terrace subdivision is a 28- unit subdivision anticipated to be completed in the summer of 2022.
These projects are anticipated to provide eligible First Time Home Buyers the ability to purchase new residential units. The City is anticipated to be awarded a CalHOME Grant from HCD in 2022. Once awarded, these funds would be utilized to assist eligible First Time Home Buyers with financial assistance to cover the remaining funds needed to purchase (Gap Assistance). As for programs and policies that were either approved or implemented in 2020, the Housing Element was deemed in compliance with HCD.
Lastly, the City approved the Residential Incentive Program.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW ANALYSIS:
The City of Chowchilla 2040 General Plan (SCH # 2009022007) and Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR) was certified on May 2, 2011.
The City of Chowchilla 5th Cycle (2016-2024 Adopted Four-Year Housing Element was deemed to be in full compliance with State Housing Element Law (Article 10.6 of the Government Code) on June 11, 2020.
No additional CEQA analysis is required for the acceptance of these progress reports.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no impact to the City’s general fund.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Continue the item to a future City Council meeting (date and time to be specified in City Council motion).
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by staff (identify specific findings and/or conditions amended; or, to be addressed in City Council motion); or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to City Staff for reconsideration of specific items to be addressed in City Council motion).
COUNCIL RESOLUTION # -22
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHOWCHILLA, CALIFORNIA,
ACCEPTING THE GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT AND THE ANNUAL HOUSING ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT FOR THE 2021 YEAR
WHEREAS, the General Plan Annual Progress Report (APR) is a document accepted by the local legislative body that summarizes the City’s progress with implementing goals, policies, and programs from the City’s General Plan; and,
WHEREAS, the Annual Housing Element Progress Report (AHEPR) is a document accepted by the local legislative body that summarizes the City’s progress with implementing goals, policies, and programs from the City’s Housing Element; and,
WHERAS, APR & AHEPR inform the public of the progress in meeting the community’s goals; and, WHERAS, the APR & AHEPR provides information for decision makers to assess how the General Plan was implemented during the 12-month reporting period; and, WHERAS, the AHEPR provides information for decision makers regarding residential development that occurred during the 12-month reporting period; and, WHEREAS, APR & AHEPR explain how land use decisions relate to adopted goals, policies, and implementation measures of the General Plan and more specifically the Housing Element within the General Plan; and,
WHEREAS, The APR & AHEPR provide information to identify necessary "course adjustments" or modifications to the General Plan and means to improve local implementation; and, WHEREAS, the General Plan APR gives the California Office of Planning and Research (OPR) the opportunity to identify statewide trends in land use decision-making and how local planning and development activities relate to statewide planning goals and policies; and, WHEREAS, the Annual Housing Element Progress Report gives the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) the ability to review local planning and residential development activities are being implemented as they relate to statewide planning goals and policies; and, WHEREAS, after the APR is accepted, it will subsequently be sent to OPR; and, WHEREAS, after the AHEPR is accepted, it will subsequently be sent to HCD and OPR; and, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Chowchilla hereby finds, determines and declares the following:
1. The above recitals are true and correct;
2. The City of Chowchilla 2040 General Plan (SCH # 2009022007) and Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR) was certified on May 2, 2011; No additional CEQA analysis is required for the acceptance of these progress reports.
3. That the City Council of the City of Chowchilla ACCEPTS the General Plan Annual Progress report for the 2021 year.
4. That the City Council of the City of Chowchilla ACCEPTS the Annual Housing Element Progress Report for the 2021 year.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Chowchilla this 22nd day of March, 2022 by the following vote to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
APPROVED:
Mayor John Chavez
ATTEST:
Joann McClendon, CMC
City Clerk
A review
of the
2021 Year
Community & Economic Development
Department
General Plan Annual Progress
Report
A REVIEW OF THE 2021 YEAR
CITY OF CHOWCHILLA GENERAL PLAN
ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
Prepared for:
City of Chowchilla
Community & Economic Development Department
Contact Person: Mark Hamilton, Director of Community & Economic Development Phone: (559) 665-8615 ext. 400
Consultant:
901 East Main Street
Clovis, CA 93612
Contact: Annalisa Perea, AICP, Contract City Planner
Phone: (559) 449-2400
Table of Contents
Section 1 – Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………………………Page 1 Section 2 - Date of presentation/acceptance by the local legislative body………………..Page 1 Section 3 - Measures associated with the implementation of the general plan with specific reference to individual element……………………………………………………………………………………Page 1 Section 4 - Housing Element APR reporting requirements – Each jurisdiction is required to report certain housing information in accordance with state housing law…………………Page 2 Section 5 - The degree to which the General Plan complies with OPR’s General Plan Guidelines, including environmental justice considerations, collaborative planning with the military lands and facilities, and consultation with Native American tribes……………….Page 2 Section 6 - The date of the last update to the General Plan……………………………………..…Page 2 Section 7 - Priorities for land use decision making that have been established by the local legislative body (e.g., passage of moratoria or emergency ordinances)………………………Page 2 Section 8 - Goals, policies, objectives, standards or other plan proposals that need to be added or were deleted, amended, or otherwise adjusted. …………………………………………Page 2 Section 9 - Analysis on Status of General Plan Policies & Implementation Measures…Page 2 City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
1 1. Introduction
Section 65400(b) of the State of California Government Code requires planning agencies to provide an annual report to their legislative body, the Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR), and the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) on the status of the General Plan and progress in its implementation. The four basic purposes of the annual report are as follows:
• To provide information to assess progress on implementation of the General Plan in accordance with the stated goals, policies and implementation measures. • Provide information to identify necessary course adjustments or modifications to the General Plan as a means to improve implementation.
• To provide a clear correlation between land use decisions made during the reporting period, and the goals, policies and implementation measures in the General Plan. • To provide information regarding local agency progress in meeting its share of regional housing needs and local efforts to remove governmental constraints to the development of housing.
State law requires that the General Plan Annual Progress Report (APR) be completed and submitted to the state each year for the previous calendar year. This APR looks at the City of Chowchilla’s progress toward implementing its General Plan during the previous planning year.
2. Date of presentation/acceptance by the local legislative body This report was presented to the Chowchilla City Council on __________________________. The City Council voted _________ to accept the report.
3. Measures associated with the implementation of the general plan with specific reference to individual element.
The City of Chowchilla had many great major milestones for the 2021 year. Below are some highlights:
• A 140-unit Tentative Subdivision Map was submitted for processing which would be Phase 1 implementation of the Rancho Calera Specific Plan.
• The City was selected by Autozone as the site to construct their new distribution center. • City staff, in conjunction with their contract planning team, continued to carry-out projects that were approved under the LEAP planning grant to help the City implement more of their Housing Element goals. The total of this grant was $65,000.
• City staff continued to carry-out the projects that were approved under the SB2 planning grant.
The total of this grant was $160,000.
• The City continued to meet with numerous developers who were interested in building in the City of Chowchilla to assist with fulfilling with the vision of the City’s General Plan.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
2 4. Housing Element APR reporting requirements – Each jurisdiction is required to report certain housing information in accordance with state housing law.
The 2021 Housing Element Annual Progress Report was completed and submitted to HCD and OPR on ____________________.
5. The degree to which the General Plan complies with OPR’s General Plan Guidelines, including environmental justice considerations, collaborative planning with the military lands and facilities, and consultation with Native American tribes.
Chowchilla was recently awarded the $65,000 LEAP planning grant funding to obtain monetary resources to complete add Environmental Justice policies in compliance with SB 1000. Chowchilla remains committed to adhering to Native American tribal consultation requirements by complying with SB18 and AB52 for all development projects. This includes extensive coordination with the Native American Heritage Commission and consultation with local tribes when reviewing projects. We will also be utilizing the Leap Grant funds to make updates to the Public Safety, Land Use, and Conservation Elements.
6. The date of the last update to the General Plan.
The General Plan was last comprehensively updated in May 2011, with the exception of the Housing Element update which was approved by City Council on May 12, 2020 and submitted to HCD in May 2020.
List of City of Chowchilla General Plan Chapters
Chapter Date Approved/Updated
Land Use Element 2011
Circulation Element 2011
Open Space & Conservation Element 2011
Public Facilities & Services Element 2011
Noise Element 2011
Housing Element 2020 (Council Approved)
7. Priorities for land use decision making that have been established by the local legislative body (e.g., passage of moratoria or emergency ordinances).
No major land use decisions, such as moratoriums or emergency ordinances, were adopted in 2021.
8. Goals, policies, objectives, standards or other plan proposals that need to be added or were deleted, amended, or otherwise adjusted.
No goals, policies, objectives, or standards were adjusted in 2020 other than those in the Housing Element.
9. Analysis on Status of General Plan Policies & Implementation Measures The table below analyzes selected General Plan policies and action items that made notable progress in 2021. The table is not a comprehensive list of all policies and action items in the General Plan; many policies/actions are under on-going implementation, and may not be listed here; the purpose of providing City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
3 the policy implementations below is simply to streamline the review and highlight the annual progress efficiently.
Land Use Element
Implementation Measure Status
Objective LU 1: Maintain a
balance between the cost of
providing efficient community
services and the benefits
associated with continued
residential growth.
Policy LU 1.1 Residential
development proposals shall be
reviewed to ensure that impacts
on public services and facilities,
as well as significant
environmental impacts, have
been mitigated to the extent
feasible.
LU 1.1.A
Maintain, and update as required, master
plans for water, sewer, drainage, circulation,
parks and recreation, and other public facilities
including fire and police stations.
City staff has been in
continuous discussion
regarding updating necessary
infrastructure master plans.
No update to plans have been
initiated as of the date of this
report development.
LU 1.1.B
The City shall adopt a Capital Improvement
Program that addresses the short- and longterm infrastructure needs of the City. The Capital Improvement Program shall identify a
range of funding sources, including assessment
districts, general fund, grants, state
subventions, fees and long-term financing
(debt) necessary to fund capital projects
The City last adopted a Capital
Improvement Program on July
2019.
LU 1.1.C
The City shall prepare and maintain a
development impact fee structure which
provides revenue to offset infrastructure costs
and implement new development's fair share
of the Capital Improvement Program. The
structure may also allow development density
increases to offset excess dedication.
The City maintains an impact
fee structure to assist with
offsetting infrastructure costs.
LU 1.1.D
The City shall work with the Chowchilla Water
District and the Chowchilla-Redtop Resource
Conservation District to review and evaluate
groundwater recharge areas in the City and
implement recharge options that will improve
water supply for all City residents. The City
shall update and maintain impact fee and
utility rate structures to provide sufficient
revenue to implement the recharge projects.
The City is currently in the
process of developing SGMA
plans.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
4 Objective LU 2: Develop and
maintain a pattern of
residential land uses that
provides for a variety and
balance of densities, and a
mixture of different dwelling
and household types.
Policy LU 3.2: Residential
development proposals over 20
acres in size shall include a
mixture of densities and
dwelling types, consistent with
the land use designation and
density range.
LU 3.2.A
At least every five years from adoption of this
General Plan, the City shall consider the need
to adopt an inclusionary housing ordinance (or
update to an existing ordinance or other
programs the City has adopted in lieu of an
inclusionary ordinance) to ensure construction
of very low, low, and moderate income
housing to meet its Regional Housing
Allocation requirement.
There is a program in the most
recent Housing Element that
supports the City adopting an
inclusionary housing
ordinance. The City has not
adopted one as of the date of
this report.
Policy LU 3.6: Multiple family
development projects shall be
required to submit detailed
architectural and site plans with
the application request.
LU 3.6.A
Where multi-story housing units are proposed
adjacent to existing or planned Low Density
areas, building elevations and the location of
windows, balconies and air conditioning units
above the first story shall be reviewed by the
City to assure visual compatibility and
residential privacy.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective LU 4: Encourage
special residential
opportunities to meet the
needs of the City's residents.
Policy LU 4.3: Home
Occupations may be permitted
in single family residential areas
where the use is clearly
incidental and secondary to the
use of the residence for dwelling
purposes.
LU 4.3.B
The Zoning Ordinance shall contain
development standards for Home Occupations
that are sensitive to traffic, noise, odor and
other potential conflicts.
The City’s zoning ordinance
has been updated to
implement this action.
Objective LU 5 Adopt design
standards which encourage
residential areas to have a
"neighborhood orientation".
Policy LU 5.1: New residential
developments designed for
individual lots, or clustered
units, shall have varied front
yard setbacks.
LU 5.1.A
Amend the Zoning Ordinance residential
setback requirements to provide for average
setbacks that allow parts of the dwelling to be
closer to the roadway when the garage is set
further off of the road.
The City’s zoning ordinance
has been updated to
implement this action.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
5 LU 5.1.B
Amend the Zoning Ordinance to provide for
public facilities and other ancillary uses
permitted in residential neighborhoods such
as, churches or large day care centers. The
public facilities and ancillary uses shall be
designed to minimize negative impacts on the
neighborhood
The City’s zoning ordinance
has been updated to
implement this action to allow
for selected PF uses within
residential zones.
Policy LU 5.2: Create and
preserve distinct, identifiable
neighborhoods that:
1. Connect in as many locations
as possible to adjacent
development, arterial streets,
and thoroughfares;
2. Provide a balanced mix of
housing, workplaces, shopping,
recreational opportunities, and
institutional uses, including
mixed-use structures (combined
residential and non-residential
uses), that help to reduce
vehicular trips;
3. Provide natural amenities
that are fronted by
thoroughfares or public spaces,
and not privatized behind
backyards;
4. Encourage commercial
buildings to directly front on the
sidewalk, with parking lots
located behind the buildings;
5. A civic or public space such as
a plaza or park should be within
the neighborhood center;
6. Allow flexible parking
requirements and arrangements
within neighborhood activity
centers to minimize the impact
of the automobile and foster
alternative transportationoriented streetscape;
7. Provide second stories on
commercial buildings to provide
for other uses and encourage
residential use;
LU 5.2.A
Amend the Zoning Ordinance to encourage
interconnecting street patterns in new
developments to promote bicycle and
pedestrian transportation.
The Zoning Ordinance
supports street connectivity
and promotes alternative
modes of transportation to
promote biking and
pedestrian activity.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
6 8. Allow small ancillary dwelling
units in the rear yard for
residential areas; and
9. Decrease front yard setbacks
moving from the neighborhood
edge to neighborhood center.
10. Small parks should be
distributed throughout the
neighborhood;
11. Schools should lie within the
neighborhood and be easily
accessible and within walking
distance;
12. When not adjacent to
agricultural operations, the
neighborhood edge should be
bordered by either a natural
corridor or the edge of an
adjacent neighborhood;
Objective LU 6: Create an
enhanced streetscape
environment through the use
of:
1) landscape standards and
pedestrian access along
arterial and collector streets;
and
2) landscaping at the
entryways to the City.
Policy LU 6.1: Arterial and
Major Collector streets in
residential and commercial
areas shall be landscaped with
drought tolerant plantings and
install low water use irrigation
systems to promote an inviting
tree-lined street appearance.
LU 6.1.A
The City shall adopt streetscape and street
tree planting standards for arterial and major
collector streets.
The City maintains streetscape
and street tree planting
standards.
The Industrial Park Specific
Plan contains guidance for
landscaping and signage at
city entrance points.
LU 6.1.B
The City shall investigate the creation of
maintenance districts for the long term
maintenance of the streetscape system.
Projects are conditioned to
either annex into or to create
a new Landscape and Lighting
Districts for on-going
maintenance.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
7 Policy LU 6.2: Where sound
walls are required along
arterial, major and minor
collector streets, they shall be
landscaped according to the
streetscape standards adopted
by the City, and where feasible
combined with "daylighted" culde-sacs.
LU 6.2.A
The City shall develop subdivision design
guidelines which define design preferences,
and include sound wall and "daylighted" culde-sac standards in the City subdivision development standards.
The City is committed to
seeking planning grant funding
to amend their subdivision
ordinance to include design
preferences.
Policy LU 6.3: Provide for open
space and landscaping with
drought tolerant plantings and
install low water use irrigation
systems along State Highway
freeway and rights-of-way to
present an attractive entry to
the City of Chowchilla.
LU 6.3.A
In connection with General Plan Circulation
policies, the City shall develop landscape
design requirements for new projects along
the entryways to the City, in particular
Highways 99, 152, and 233. Develop
landscaped setbacks that promote a sense of
transition from the surrounding agricultural
area and urban setting. Utilization of trees to
screen urban uses along these entryways is
encouraged within the setback. Landscape
shall be maintained by the Landscape and
Lighting Maintenance District.
The City maintains streetscape
and street tree planting
standards.
The Industrial Park Specific
Plan contains guidance for
landscaping and signage at
city entrance points.
This is remains committed to
pursue other planning
opportunities to further define
requirements for entryways as
needed.
Objective LU 7: Minimize
conflicts between residential
uses and other incompatible
land uses.
Policy LU 7.2: Appropriate
buffers or other effective
measures shall be included in
development plans to ensure
that conflicts such as noise,
odor, light and glare, dust, or
other potentially significant
adverse environmental
conditions are minimized.
LU 7.2.A
Project proponents adjacent to existing
industrial, agricultural and open space uses or
land use designation shall be required to
provide the City with a full and complete
written discussion that addresses the project's
impact on the viability of the adjacent use.
These discussions shall include noise,
hazardous materials, emergency response and
evacuation, air quality, odors, light and glare,
traffic, public services and aesthetics.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy LU 7.3: New development
on the fringes of the City shall
recognize the right of
agriculture to exist and continue
to operate in proximity to the
development. Deed restrictions
may be required which inform
future residents of the right of
agriculture to continue within
the limits of the law without
LU 7.3.A
Development proposals on the fringe of the
City, where there is no intervening urban
development, and the potential conflict with
neighboring agricultural uses, shall be
reviewed by the City to determine whether
there is sufficient cause to require deed
restrictions or notices to protect the right of
agriculture to continue.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
8 interference or protest from
nearby property owners.
LU 7.3.B
The City shall require low density residential
development adjacent to agricultural and / or
open space at the limits of the Planning Area.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
LU 7.3.C
The City shall consider adopting a “right to
farm” ordinance to protect existing agricultural
uses from adjacent urban development.
The City remains committed
to exploring this.
Policy LU 7.4: Proposed
residential, commercial, and
industrial uses shall be
consistent with the Chowchilla
Municipal Airport Plan.
LU 7.4.A
The City shall adhere to the Madera County
Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan in the
review and approval of development projects.
The City committed to
continue fulfilling this action
for projects that fall withing
the purview of this plan.
LU 7.4.B
The City shall work with the Chowchilla Airport
to find an alternative site for the airport that
will not disrupt existing and future residential
areas.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis. The Public
Works Department continues
to seek airport grant funding
to pursue a variety of airportrelated opportunities,
including the option to one
day relocate the airport.
Objective LU 8: Identify and
plan for adequate land within
the City to sustain commercial
activity that will:
1. Encourage regional retail
shopping in Chowchilla;
2. Conveniently serve current
and future residential needs;
3. Provide employment
opportunities;
4. Contribute to the
attractiveness of the
community;
5. Be served by arterial streets;
and,
6. Contribute to the City's
revenue base
LU 8.1.A
Development conditions of approval should
reflect that the City's Capital Improvement
program has been considered, and that action
is taken to ensure the Program's
implementation.
The Planning Department
remains committed to
working in conjunction with
the City Engineer to ensure
that the CIP is taken into
consideration when
developing conditions of
approval.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
9 Policy LU 8.1: Developers of
commercial uses shall be
required to participate in
funding of transportation
improvements necessary to
accommodate the level of
activity anticipated.
Transportation improvements
may include construction of
major streets, signalization,
public transit operational
improvements, freeway ramps,
bridges, interchanges and other
major improvements to the
extent such improvements are
necessary to serve the
commercial uses.
Objective LU 9.1: Promote the
vitality of the Downtown
Commercial District by
encouraging it to become a
unique shopping district with a
variety of retail sales,
restaurants, entertainment,
public gathering facilities,
offices, artisans, government
offices, residential and open
space uses.
Policy LU 9.1: Promote an
aesthetically pleasing,
pedestrian friendly and diverse
downtown.
LU 9.1.A
The City shall work with the Chamber of
Commerce, and other interested groups to
develop a Master Plan for the planning and
implementation of standard and programs to
support the continued evolution of the
Downtown Commercial District. The Master
Plan shall include detailed development
requirements and guidelines for the
Downtown Commercial District.
The Department maintains a
good working relationship
with the local chamber. The
chamber assisted the City with
the development of the
Downtown Design Guidelines.
Policy LU 9.2: Mixed uses which
support the overall intent of the
Downtown Commercial District
should be encouraged by the
adoption of a flexible zoning
district applicable only in the
Downtown Commercial District.
LU 9.2.A
Amend the Zoning Ordinance to provide for a
new Downtown Commercial District
Classification which allows flexibility in the
combination of uses including retail sales,
restaurants, offices, entertainment, artisans,
government offices, residential, and open
space use consistent with an adopted Master
Plan.
The Zoning Ordinance was
updated to add a new
Downtown Commercial
District to meet this action.
Policy LU 9.3: A mixture of retail
should with supporting public
and private office development
LU 9.3.A
Prepare a Downtown Master Plan that defines
the desired character of Downtown
The City prepared Downtown
Design Guidelines which
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
10 is desired within and around the
Downtown Commercial District.
incorporating design guidelines, allowing a
mixture of design supportive of the historic
character of Downtown, adequate and
convenient parking, and pedestrian friendly.
achieves the spirit of this
action.
Objective LU 10: Contribute to
neighborhood identity by
locating Neighborhood
Commercial uses on major
collector streets.
Policy LU 10.2: Neighborhood
Commercial Centers shall be
designed at a pedestrian scale
and contribute to the visual
value of the area.
LU 10.2.A
Site Plan review of Neighborhood Centers shall
consider the following:
1. Location of ingress and egress in relation to
surrounding uses and adjust those locations to
minimize traffic conflicts.
2. Promote comprehensive street and parking
lot landscaping to ensure that the
Neighborhood Center substantially contributes
to the overall appearance of the area and
integrate the site with the balance of the
neighborhood.
3. Ensure that noise and lighting are not
disruptive to adjacent uses, in particular
delivery vehicles and drive through activities.
4. Design of structures is in scale and
architecturally compatible with the existing or
planned surrounding uses.
These factors are all taken into
consideration during the site
plan review process. Staff
remains committed to
continue following these
guidelines when reviewing
projects during the site plan
review process.
Policy LU 10.4: Neighborhood
Commercial designations should
be limited to a parcel or parcels
which, individually or in
aggregate, total between five to
seven acres. Small corner
parcels containing only a
convenience store shall be
discouraged in favor of an
integrated commercial
development. Convenience
stores which have been
demonstrated by a project
proponent to be an integral part
of the overall Neighborhood
Commercial development are
acceptable.
LU 10.4.A
Expansion of a Neighborhood Commercial
designation to adjacent properties may be
permitted if the following findings can be
made:
1. The adjoining parcel is too small to
reasonably support its current land use
designation;
2. Expansion of the Neighborhood Commercial
designation would not significantly impact
other adjoining uses; and,
3. That the expansion will not place significant
new demands on traffic or other existing
infrastructure facilities.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
LU 10.4.B
Incremental development of a project site
should not limit or preclude the integrated,
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
11 logical design of a larger Neighborhood
Commercial center.
LU 10.4.C
When proposals are received by the City to
develop only a portion of a parcel with
Neighborhood Commercial designation, that
proposal shall be accompanied by a master
plan which relates the proposed project to full
build-out of the center and demonstrates how
the incremental project fits with the overall
circulation and parking scheme, site layout,
architectural design, and utility services plan
for the center.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective LU 11: Ensure all
Service Commercial, Service
Commercial-Highway and
Mixed Use Commercial uses are
well planned and developed to
meet the needs of the
community and contribute to
the resolution of traffic, public
transit, and parking impacts
created by additional traffic
demands generated by those
businesses.
Policy LU 11.1: Commercial
development proponents are
required to demonstrate that
adequate circulation
improvements including street
improvements, signalization,
bridges, public transit, and
parking facilities are available
or required through mitigation
measures to serve the proposed
project.
LU 11.1.A
Occupancy Permits will not be issued until
associated traffic, public transit, and parking
impact mitigation measures are completed or
an agreement has been approved for their
completion.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective LU 12: Minimize
conflicts between industrial
and other major nonresidential land uses and other
potentially sensitive land uses
by concentrating industrial and
other major non-residential
land uses activity within
selected planning areas.
LU 12.1.A
New industrial development proposed near
existing or planned residential land uses shall
be required to provide the City with a full and
complete written discussion that addresses the
project's impact on the viability of the existing
or proposed residential land uses. Major
regional recreation facilities that may include
large buildings, grandstands, out-door venues
and associated commercial operations
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
12 Policy LU 12.1:
Retail Uses shall only be
permitted in industrial areas as
a secondary use to a permitted
industrial or other major nonresidential land uses. Retail and service commercial uses which
serve the daily needs of
employees in the area or serve
regional recreation facility
customers may be permitted.
supporting the activities shall prepare master
plans. The discussion shall include noise,
hazardous materials, emergency response and
evacuation, air quality, odors, light and glare,
traffic and circulation, and aesthetics.
Objective LU 13: Provide for
compatible industrial and
public facility land uses around
the airport that maintain
safety, health, environmental,
economic concerns of the
community.
Policy LU 13.1: Coordinate with
the City Planning Commission
and the Madera County Airport
Land Use Commission
considering new residential
development that may fall
within the existing airport area
of influence.
LU 13.1.A
Residential development within the
southeasterly approach zone is to be restricted
within a horizontal distance extending
approximately 3,000 to 4,000 feet southeast of
the end of the runway.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
LU 13.1.B
The City shall require the dedication of aviation
easements as a condition of approving any
development within the Airport Approach
Zone.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
LU 13.1.C
Incompatible land uses which would diminish
the existing operation and the future
expansion of the Chowchilla Airport shall be
fully evaluated for the impacts on the airport
prior to approval.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
LU 13.1.D
The Land Use Element of the Chowchilla
General Plan and the Chowchilla Zoning
Ordinance shall be used to restrict potentially
hazardous land uses from being established
within Compatibility Zones A & B1 as defined
by the Madera County Airport Land Use
Compatibility Plan (refer to Figure CI-3).
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
13 1. Compatibility Zone A is the area nearest the
airport runway where the probability of an
accident and the impact of noise are the
greatest. The following restrictions would
apply in Compatibility Zone A:
a. No new residential construction;
b. No new schools, churches, or other facilities
accommodating large groups of people;
c. Height limitations of structures shall be in
conformance with Federal Aviation
Administration regulations; and
d. No new structures shall be built within 300
feet of the center line of the runway or 1,000
feet from the ends of the runway.
2. Compatibility Zone B1 is the area
immediately adjacent to Zone A, where the
probability of an accident is lower than in Zone
A and where there may be unacceptable noise
levels. The following restrictions apply in
Compatibility Zone B1:
a. Creation of new residential subdivisions is
be prohibited, however, division of existing
large residential lots for more efficient use of
the land or in conjunction with a
redevelopment project may be allowed;
b. New single family residential construction
may be allowed on existing lots on a case-bycase basis after evaluation for potential hazards;
c. No new schools, churches, or other facilities
accommodating large groups of people may be
constructed;
d. Height limitations of structures shall be in
conformance with Federal Aviation
regulations; and
e. No new structure may be built within 300
feet of the center of the runway or 1,000 feet
from the ends of the runway.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
14 Objective LU 14.1: Provide for a
General Aviation airport within
the Chowchilla General Plan
Planning Area that will
continue to provide reliable
service to the community.
Policy LU 14.1: Alternative
locations to the existing airport
will be considered by the City for
a General Aviation airport
within the General Plan
Planning Area. The City's Airport
Commission shall investigate
alternative sites for an airport
and provide recommendations
including proposed
development strategy to the
City Council.
LU 14.1.A
The criteria for siting a potential airport shall
include the following:
1. Access from existing City urban area.
2. Surrounding uses and long-term absence of
any potential conflicting land uses.
3. Potential to aggregate parcels of land of
sufficient size and orientation for airport
development.
4. Estimated cost of airport development and
potential for funding development from noncity sources.
5. Consistency with State and Federal aviation
regulations.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective LU 15: To provide for
a Fairgrounds facility within the
Chowchilla General Plan
Planning Area that will continue
to provide a multi-purpose
resource to the community.
Policy LU 15.1: Consider
alternative locations for the
County fairgrounds within or
near the General Plan Planning
Area to provide an area that will
serve the community and allow
for an expansion of the facility.
LU 15.1.A
The criteria for a new fairground site shall
include the following:
1. Access from existing City urban area.
2. Surrounding uses and long-term absence of
any potential conflicting land uses.
3. Potential to aggregate parcels of land of
sufficient size for development.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective LU 21: Support the
principles of reducing air
pollutants through land use,
transportation, and energy use
planning.
Policy LU 21.1: Encourage
transportation modes that
minimize contaminant
emissions from motor vehicle
use.
LU 21.1.A
New development shall be located and
designed to conserve air quality and minimize
direct and indirect emissions of air
contaminants. Minimize impacts of new
development by reviewing development
proposals for potential impacts pursuant to
CEQA and the SJVAPCD CEQA Guidelines.
Apply land use and transportation planning
techniques such as:
1. Incorporation of public transit stops;
The City remains committed
to including the SJVAPCD as
part of the project review
process. The City is committed
to continue including
conditions of approval as
necessary to reduce any air
quality impacts a project may
have.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
15 2. Pedestrian and bicycle linkage to
commercial centers, employment centers,
schools and parks;
3. Preferential parking for car pools and van
pools;
4. Traffic flow improvements; and
5. Employer trip reduction programs
LU 21.1.B
Control dust and particulate matter by
implementing the SJVAPCD fugitive dust
control measures, including:
1. Restricting outdoor storage of fine
particulate matter;
2. Requiring liners for truck beds and covering
of loads;
3. Controlling construction activities and
emissions from unpaved areas; and
4. Paving areas used for vehicle maneuvering
The City is committed to
ensuring projects comply with
SJVAPCD Regulation VIII when
required.
LU 21.1.C
The City of Chowchilla shall work with the
SJVAPCD, to the extent feasible, to meet
federal and state air quality standards for all
pollutants. To ensure that new measures can
be practically enforced in the region,
participate in future amendments and updates
of the San Joaquin Valley Clean Air Plan.
The City remains committed
to working with the SJVAPCD
as needed to ensure local,
state, and federal standards
for pollutants are adhered to.
LU 21.1.D
The City of Chowchilla shall promote
development that is compact, mixed use,
pedestrian friendly or transit oriented, and by
promoting energy efficient building design and
site planning.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Circulation Element
Implementation Measure Status
Objective CI 1: Establish a
circulation system that is
consistent with the land use
patterns of the City.
CI 1.1.A
The Classification of Existing and Future Streets
shall be used in determining right-of-way
acquisitions, design and land use decisions.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
16 Policy CI 1.1: Establish a
hierarchy of streets and
improvement standards to
support existing and future
transportation needs.
CI 1.1.B
Future street development shall be consistent
with the street classifications. The City
reserves the right to reduce the ultimate rightof-way to avoid existing development, and to construct a travel-way which generally meets
the street classification standards, by reducing
the area provided for landscaping, utilities,
parking and other non-travel use.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 1.1.C
The City will encourage property owners in
newly developing areas to prepare Specific
Plans or Area Plans which identify future major
street alignments. The City will participate in
the design of street alignments in advance of
development to ensure consistent and logical
design of the circulation system.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 1.1.D
Incorporation of moderately curved streets,
cul-de-sacs, knuckles and "T" intersections in
site plans is encouraged. Maximum length of
straight streets should not exceed 900 feet,
unless appropriate design allows for a longer
street.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 1.1.E
All streets entering upon opposite sides of any
given street should have their centerline
directly opposite to each other or separated by
at least 150 feet.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 1.1.F
New residential development over 20 units
shall provide at least two connections to
arterials or collector streets.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy CI 1.2: Coordinate
planning and development of
the circulation system with
development approvals
throughout the City.
CI 1.2.A
The City shall prepare, adopt and maintain
Improvement Standards and Specifications for
the development of all street improvements,
and to implement the Goals, Objectives,
Policies and Implementation Measures of this
General Plan.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
17 CI 1.2.B
When new streets are provided at the
periphery of a project, minimum construction
shall consist of full half-width construction on
the site nearest the project plus a minimum of
one lane of travel in the opposite direction.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective CI 2: Provide timely
and effective means of
programming and constructing
street and highway
improvements to maintain an
overall Level of Service of "C"
as referred in Table CI-5.
Policy CI 2.1: Street
improvements identified in the
Capital Improvement Plan shall
be prioritized with emphasis on
reducing traffic congestion and
improving circulation.
CI 1.5.A
Improve intersections operating at less than an
A.M. and P.M. peak hour Level of Service "D"
conditions by adding appropriate turning lanes
to congested approaches, widening
intersection approaches, or modifying signal
timing at intersections and coordinating with
other signals, as appropriate, unless other
public health, safety, or welfare factors
determine otherwise.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 1.5.B
The City may pursue the reservation of rightof-way and define specific development standards and requirements through the
preparation and adoption of Precise Plan Lines.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 1.5.C
The City may pursue the identification of rightof-way for major streets and work with developers to ensure that the general location
of these road segments are integrated in
development plans. Plan lines may be shown
on the Circulation Map or on the Land Use
Map for the purpose of identifying these
general locations.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 1.5.D
To help ensure that adequate and safe travelways can be created through existing developed areas of the City, right-of-way
standards for each classification may be
modified upon approval by the City Engineer.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 1.5.E
Properly space and coordinate traffic signals in
order to minimize the acceleration, idling and
deceleration that produce higher vehicular
emissions levels as part of a Transportation
System Management program.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
18 Policy CI 2.3: New development
shall be required to mitigate
traffic impacts associated with
the project on the Highways,
Arterial streets, Collector
streets, and Local streets,
including signalization,
interchanges, public transit
facilities, and other traffic
facilities.
CI 1.6.A
Traffic studies of affected Highways, Arterial,
Collector, and Local streets, may be required
as part of the environmental assessment of
proposed projects to assure City-wide traffic
service levels are maintained. The criteria for
requiring traffic studies includes the potential
for significant environmental effects from the
project, number of vehicle trips generated by
the project, location of project relative to
existing circulation system, actual or assumed
level-of-service of surrounding streets or
intersections, and relevance of prior traffic
studies which may have considered the
proposed project. Traffic studies shall include
level-of-service forecasts to account for
individual and cumulative major land use
changes in the City. Level-of-service forecasts
should be used to identify deficient roadways
and update street improvement plans and
priorities.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy CI 2.4: The City of
Chowchilla shall consider
accepting relinquishment of
State Highway 233 by the year
2012.
CI 1.7.A
The City of Chowchilla shall establish a
committee of elected officials and staff to
initiate negotiations with Caltrans for the
smooth and equitable transition of State Route
233 to the City of Chowchilla. The committee
shall provide the City Council with its
recommendations not later than June 30,
2010.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective CI 3: To develop and
maintain an efficient and
effective roadway system using
major and minor Arterial
streets.
Policy CI 3.1: The City shall
promote an active policy of
consolidating driveways, access
points and curb cuts along
existing and developed Arterial
streets when a zone change to a
greater density or intensity,
division of property, or new
development, or a major
remodeling occurs.
CI 2.1.A
Existing points of ingress and egress shall be
consolidated whenever possible. Driveway
consolidation for new development shall be
encouraged through access agreements along
Arterial or higher classification streets.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
19 CI 2.1.B
Left-hand turn lanes or center lanes shall be
provided for all left-turn access from Arterial
streets in commercial and industrial areas.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 2.1.C
If parcel size demands and alternative shared
access is not available, commercial driveways
may be provided not less than 50 feet from an
intersection. (Measurement shall be from the
curb return to the nearest edge of the
driveway.) These driveways shall not be
serviced by median breaks. If more than one is
required to serve a property, the driveways
shall be separated by not less than 50 feet.
(The separation is to be measured nearest
edge to nearest edge of the driveways.).
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 2.1.D
The distance between commercial driveways
on Arterial streets should not be less than 50
feet. (Measurements shall be from the curb
return of the intersection to the nearest edge
of the driveway.)
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 2.1.E
Driveway access to major activity centers,
should be located no closer than 100 feet to
the intersection of a Collector or Arterial
street. (Measurements shall be from the curb
return of the intersection to the nearest edge
of the driveway.)
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 2.1.F
Where practical and desirable, commercial
driveways should be located on adjacent
Collector streets rather than on Arterial
streets.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 2.1.G
Single family residential driveways are
prohibited on new Arterial streets, and shall be
discouraged on existing Arterial streets.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy 3.2: Design of Arterial
Streets shall minimize
unsignalized intersections where
cross traffic is allowed. The
number of signals shall be kept
to a minimum and shall be
spaced to encourage efficient
traffic flow.
CI 2.2.A
Traffic signals shall not be closer than 1/4 mile
a part on Arterial and Collector streets unless
conditions warrant additional signalization to
improve traffic flow or public safety.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
20 CI 2.2.B
Separation of Collector Street entry points
should not be less than 500 feet apart on
Arterial streets, and other Collector streets.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy 3.3: Planning and
development of Arterial and
Collector streets shall include
design features which can be
used as public transit stops.
CI 2.2.A
Arterial and Collector streets shall be designed
to allow transit vehicles to pull in and out of
traffic by using a parking lane with bus stops.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy 3.4: To avoid conflict
between the circulation system
and residential uses, it is
recommended that truck traffic
be oriented only onto the
designated Arterial streets,
where feasible.
CI 2.4.A
The City shall periodically review the list of
streets designated as truck routes, and provide
public notification of any changes to the truck
route system.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 2.4.B
The City shall proceed with the connection of
Avenue 24 (East Sierra View Avenue) between
West Robertson Blvd. and Highway 99 /
Avenue 24 interchange as a truck route to
reroute trucks from downtown Chowchilla.
The City achieved this during
the Industrial Park Specific
Plan development.
Objective CI 4: The circulation
system shall coordinate
Collector streets with Arterial
streets and Local streets.
Policy CI 4.1: The City shall
promote an active policy of
consolidating driveways, access
points and curb cuts along
existing developed Collector
streets when a zone change to a
greater density or intensity,
division of property, or new
development or a major
remodeling occurs.
CI 3.1 A
Driveways to multi-family residential property
along Major Collector streets should be
consolidated whenever possible.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 3.1.B
The distance between driveways and
intersecting Collectors or Local streets should
not be less than 50 feet. (Measurements shall
be from curb return to the nearest edge of the
driveway.)
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 3.1.C
Whenever possible, left-hand turn lanes or
center turn lanes shall be provided as access
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
21 on Collector Streets in commercial and
industrial areas of the City.
CI 3.1.D
Single-family residential driveways should not
be allowed along Major Collector or higher
classification streets. If driveways are to be
allowed, lots fronting the street shall be
designed at such a width to allow multiple
access driveways to discourage backing out
into traffic.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 3.1.E
In commercial and industrial areas, if parcel
size demands and an alternative shared access
is not available, driveways may be provided
not less than 50 feet from the intersection.
(Measurement shall be from the curb return to
the nearest edge of the driveway.) These
driveways shall not be serviced by median
breaks. If more than one is required to serve a
property, the driveways shall be separated by
50 feet. (The separation is to be measured
nearest edge to nearest edge of the
driveways.)
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 3.1.F
Driveway access to major activity centers
should be located no closer than 50 feet to the
adjacent intersection of a Collector or Arterial
street. (Measurement shall be from the curb
return to the nearest edge of the driveway.)
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy CI 4.2: Design of Collector
Streets shall encourage efficient
movement of traffic and
minimize uncontrolled crosstraffic.
CI 3.2.A
Where possible, Arterial, and Collector streets
shall form 4-leg, right-angle intersections; jogs,
offset and skewed intersections of streets in
near proximity shall be avoided.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 3.2.B
To the extent possible Collector streets shall
be curvilinear and incorporate “traffic calming”
features such as “roundabouts” at strategic
locations as approved by the City.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 3.2.C
Residential development shall be oriented
away (side-on or rear-on) from future Arterial
streets, and properly buffered so that the
traffic carrying capacity on the street will be
preserved and the residential environment
protected from the potentially adverse
characteristics of the street. "Daylighted" culThe City remains committed to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
22 de-sacs for pedestrian access are also
encouraged.
CI 3.2.D
If the design of the Collector street is
constrained by significant right-of-way
limitations, the Collector street or an existing
street which connects one part of the City with
another, must function at Collector traffic
levels.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 3.2.E
To create an efficient and effective circulation
system, Collector Streets Intersection should
be no less than approximately 300 feet apart.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective CI 5: To encourage
the design of local and private
streets so that they are safe
and pleasant for residents.
Policy CI 5.1: Discourage
through-traffic on Local streets
in residential areas.
CI 4.1.A
To keep Local street volumes within design
capacity, street length should be kept under
1,000 feet unless interrupted by an Arterial or
Collector street. (The overall length of Local
streets should not exceed 1,200 feet unless
appropriate design allows for a longer street).
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 4.1.B
To assist in alleviating traffic delays, Local
street intersections should be no less than 150'
apart.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 4.1.C
Where feasible in overall subdivision design,
curvilinear streets shall be constructed.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 4.1.D
Subdivision designs should be encouraged to
use "daylighted" cul-de-sacs opening on to
Arterial and Collector streets thereby providing
enhanced pedestrian access to future public
transit system routes.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 4.1.E
Residential subdivisions shall be designed to
encourage access from Local to Collector
streets and discourage use of Local streets as
an access onto, or bypass of, Collector or
Arterial streets.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 4.1.F
Integrate into the City Public Works
Construction Standards design details for
"daylighted" cul-de-sacs which can be jointly
used for public transit pick-up locations along
Arterial and Collector streets.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
23 CI 4.1.G
A cul-de-sac shall be constructed on all
permanent dead-end streets. Cul-de-sacs are
strongly discouraged in commercial and
industrial developments. Cul-de-sac lengths
shall not exceed 600 feet. Temporary cul-desacs may be permitted on streets planned for extension.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy CI 5.2: Development or
redevelopment of alleys should
ensure the fair share of
improvement costs and shall be
clearly identified early in the
development process.
CI 4.2.A
Alleys or Lanes, when allowed in new
residential areas shall be paved and
incorporated into an overall design theme and
development program that includes ongoing
maintenance and replacement costs as an
integral component of the development.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 4.2.B
New alley or lane standards within the
Downtown District should be maintained to
provide for pedestrian corridors, access to offstreet parking, delivery services, and refuse collection. The alleys or lanes should be fully
improved and may contain ornamental paving,
landscaping and lighting.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 4.2.C
Existing alleys or lanes used as access to new
development shall be required to improve the
alley to City standards. Such improvements
shall extend in length along the full alley
frontage of the property, and extend to the
nearest public street. Width of improvements
shall encompass full existing and dedicated
alley width.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 4.2.D
Proposals for private streets and new alleys or
lanes constructed in conjunction with
development shall be required to demonstrate
fiscal ability for long-term maintenance.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective CI 6: Acquire the
ultimate right-of-way for
streets during the earliest stage
of development possible.
Where existing right-of-way is
substandard, acquire
additional right-of-way to
satisfy ultimate needs.
CI 5.1.A
Ultimate right-of-way shall be dedicated and /
or developed to the appropriate width when a
zone change to a greater density or intensity,
division of property, or when new
development or major remodeling occurs.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
24 Policy CI 6.1: Work with new
development to ensure that the
fair share of street improvement
costs are clearly identified early
in the development process and
that street development is
consistent with the City's Capital
Improvement Plan.
CI 5.1.B
The City shall adopt minimum right-of-way
development standards for residential and
non-residential developments. Dedication or
construction in excess of this minimum level
shall be included for funding in the City-wide
Capital Improvement Plan.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 5.1.C
The City will include in its Capital Improvement
Plan the acquisition of right-of-way and the
construction or reconstruction of those streets
not otherwise obtainable under Program CI
6.1-A.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 5.1.D
The City will work with Madera County to
apply City standards to all land use and
development permits issued in the
unincorporated territory within the City's
Planning Area boundary.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 5.1.E
Where public infrastructure is installed within
easements, the City shall consider placing
public streets in the alignment of
infrastructure where practical.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy CI 6.2: On developed
streets, where the existing rightof-way does not meet the current standards, the City will
adopt and fund a program to
acquire the ultimate right-ofway where practical. The City reserves the ability to deviate
from the standard if the
ultimate right-of-way is not
obtainable due to existing
development or other
limitations.
CI 5.2.A
The City shall establish an additional fund base,
and periodically update, a City-wide Capital
Improvement Plan, that shall identify both
funded and unfunded portions of the street
improvements necessary to maintain the
adopted Level of Service.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
25 Objective CI 7: Provide
adequate parking and loading
facilities while encouraging
alternative means of
transportation.
Policy CI 7.1: Encourage the
development of appropriate
locations for park-and-ride
facilities as appropriate in all
new developments.
CI 6.1.A
Sites for stand-alone park-and-ride lots should
generally be located near highly traveled
commute routes, (i.e., Highway 99, Robertson
Blvd, Highway 152, Minturn Road, and Avenue
24.).
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy CI 7.2: The City shall
establish off-street parking
ratios for all public and private
development within the City.
CI 6.2.A
Parking standards shall be evaluated for new
development to ensure that parking
requirements are satisfied within walking
distance of the commercial areas, and to
ensure that Arterial, or higher classification
streets, do not separate parking facilities from
the parking demand generator.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 6.2.B
Adjacent parking areas for large commercial
and professional developments should be
designed to allow interconnection and free
flow of traffic between those facilities. Access
easements and agreements should be
obtained during the development process to
ensure future access and recorded to run with
the land.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 6.2.C
The City will establish off-street parking ratios
for development within the Downtown
District.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 6.2.D
Where it is infeasible for new development to
provide off-street parking within the
Downtown District, the City will establish an inlieu fee with the proceeds used to increase parking within the District.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective CI 8: The circulation
system shall be designed to
create an aesthetically
pleasant environment for the
City. When new development
occurs, aesthetics shall be an
important factor in circulation
design.
CI 7.3.A
The City Community Development Department
shall cooperate with the Redevelopment
Agency to identify locations for potential truck
parking and development a funding plan for
land acquisition and improvements by the year
2010.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
26 Policy CI 8.3: The City will
investigate the feasibility of
locating commercial truck
parking facilities at strategic
locations throughout the City
where residents' truck and
tractor rigs can be parked over
night as a means of keeping City
streets clear of these vehicles
when the residents are at home.
Policy CI 8.4: Provide for
adequate spatial separation and
landscaping for development
along regional highways rightsof-way.
CI 7.4.A
Additional landscape design requirements and
dedications of at least 20 feet wide shall be
considered for new projects along the
entryway into the City, specifically Highways
99 and Highway 152 at Robertson Blvd.,
Avenue 24 / SR 99, and Minturn Road / SR 99.
Maintenance of these areas may be included in
a Maintenance District established by the City.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy CI 8.6: Protect and
enhance the efficiency of
Highways 99 and 152.
CI 7.6.A
The City will continue to preserve the required
right of way for the eventual widening of
Highway 99 and the eventual connection of
Highway 152 with Highway 99 southeast of the
City.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
CI 7.6.B
The City will pursue funding and a negotiated
agreement with Caltrans to achieve the
necessary upgrades of Highways 233
interchange with Highway 99 under the State
Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP).
This project is currently
underway. The City is
currently completing the
CEQA/NEPA analysis for this
project.
Objective CI 9: Develop a public
transit system capable of
satisfying both local and
regional travel demand.
Policy CI 9.1: The City shall
integrate the planning for a
“Transit Service Center” with
the “Downtown Development
Guidelines” to attract major
national bus carriers to
reestablish a bus depot in the
City of Chowchilla.
CI 8.1.A
The City Community Development Department
and the Redevelopment Agency shall initiate a
cooperative program with local property
owners and / or businesspersons to identify a
location and funding for a “Transit Service
Center” within the downtown of the City by
the year 2014.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
27 Policy CI 9.3: Recognize in the
planning of transit systems the
efforts of other social service
transit provided by schools,
mental health services, and
others who provide specialized
transit services.
CI 8.3.A
Continue to refer development requests to the
Chowchilla Unified School District for review
and comment.
The City remains committed
continuing to refer
development requests to the
school districts for review and
comment.
Policy CI 9.4: Development
adjacent to arterials, or to
minor and major collectors shall
coordinate with City to identify
appropriate locations for public
transit improvements (i.e. bus
pullouts, seating shelters) to
encourage public transit use.
CI 8.4.A
Public transit stops shall be provided as
recommended by the City to ensure residents
are within the proximity of a public transit
stop.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis. The City
currently has a dial-a-ride
service which is adequately
serving the community.
CI 8.4.B
Street design for arterials, major collectors and
minor collectors shall include provisions for
fixed route public transit system.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis, however the
City will continue to offer their
dial-a-ride services for the
foreseeable future.
CI 8.4.C
Public transit routes and stops shall be planned
in the areas of high public activity in the City.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis, however the
City will continue to offer their
dial-a-ride services for the
foreseeable future.
Policy 9.5: Provide local transit
service to the City via the CATX
demand / response system.
CI 8.5.A
Annually evaluate public transportation needs
of the City and modify services as demand and
funding allow
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective CI 10: Provide an
extensive and regionally linked
public bicycle and pedestrian
trails system.
Policy CI 10.3: Subdivision
layouts should include safe and
pleasant designs which promote
pedestrian access to Arterial
and Collector streets, and
consider the location of
community services, such as
schools, parks, the needs of
disabled persons, and
CI 9.3.A
Encourage the use of "daylighted" cul-de-sacs
for residential sidewalks to increase pedestrian
access to Arterial or Collector streets.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
28 neighborhood shopping activity
centers in their design.
CI 9.3.B
Implement street standards that include
sidewalks or walkways on both sides of streets,
where appropriate. Where existing streets may
require additional right-of-way to
accommodate full improvements including
sidewalks, and where it is impractical to
acquire sufficient right-of-way, the vehicle
travel-way will be the first priority.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy CI 10.4: A bicycle route
system shall be identified and
maintained which serves the
existing developed City. This
route system may utilize City
streets, canals, or other rightsof-ways. Where on-street bicycle lanes are proposed they
should be considered a shared
facility with vehicular traffic on
the street.
CI 9.4.A
The bicycle route system should be consistent
with the Madera County Regional Plan.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective CI 12: Ensure that the
Chowchilla Airport is located in
an appropriate area so as to
maintain long-term operational
characteristics without creating
or being influenced by land use
conflicts.
Policy CI 12.3: As directed by
the City at the appropriate time,
the City of Chowchilla
Community Development
Department, Redevelopment
Agency, and the Airport
Commission shall work together
to identify a future site for the
relocation of the Chowchilla
Airport and a reuse plan for the
existing airport land. An
implementation plan shall be
prepared that identifies funding
for land acquisition, airport
development costs, and
disposition of the existing
airport.
CI 11.3.A
When relocation of the airport appears
feasible, a City ad-hoc airport relocation
committee shall be established to assist in
identifying a future site for the relocation of
the Chowchilla Airport and prepare an
implementation plan that identifies funding for
land acquisition, airport development costs,
and disposition of the existing airport for City
Council consideration.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
29 Open Space & Conservation Element
Implementation Measure Status
Objective OS 1: Preserve a
greenbelt / open space buffer
around the perimeter of the
City of Chowchilla Sphere of
Influence boundary that
provides a clear sense of
identity for the City of
Chowchilla.
Policy OS 1.1: Coordinate with
Madera County in the creation
of a greenbelt / open space
buffer around the perimeter of
the City of Chowchilla Sphere of
Influence boundary.
OS 1.1.A
The City of Chowchilla shall work with Madera
County to preserve agricultural uses.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy OS 1.4: Support
preservation of existing
agricultural lands at the
periphery of the City of
Chowchilla Sphere of Influence.
OS 1.4.A
Low density residential and industrial land uses
will be included in the land use plan to reduce
density toward the edge of the Chowchilla
Planning Area.
The City remains committed
to reducing density toward
the edge of the planning area.
OS 1.4.B
The sizing of sewer lines will be reduced as
they approach the edge of urban development
in the Planning Area to limit growth influences
beyond the Planning Area.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
OS 1.4.C
The City of Chowchilla will continue to
coordinate land use planning efforts with
Madera County to ensure that agricultural land
uses surrounding the Chowchilla Planning Area
are maintained.
The City will continue to
coordinate with the County on
agricultural land use topics.
Objective OS 4: Maximize open
space through appropriate
acquisition mechanisms with
willing sellers.
Policy OS 4.2: An equitable
balance shall be sought
between development density
and open space to be preserved.
OS 4.2.A
The City may require participation, directly or
indirectly in the acquisition of land for the
disposal of treated wastewater or storm
drainage outside of the Chowchilla Planning
Area. Such programs may be used as credit for
the long-term preservation of agricultural or
open space lands.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
OS 4.2.B
Require dedication of appropriate open space
land as a condition of approval for proposed
development projects. Establish a method for
The City remains committed
to requiring the dedication of
open space as needed with
development projects.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
30 permanent maintenance of open space land
through maintenance districts.
Objective OS 5: Generate funds
within the community for
acquisition, improvement,
maintenance and management
of open space lands.
Policy OS 5.1: The City shall
actively pursue and use public
and private funding sources that
become available for land
acquisition, facility construction,
program development and
maintenance of park and open
space areas
OS 5.1.A
The City shall collect park impact fees as a part
of its development approval process.
The City remains committed
continuing to collect park
impact fees on all
development projects.
OS 5.1.B
The City shall consider formation or
annexation to existing districts that provide for
the long term financing of parks and open
space facilities.
The City remains committed
to long-term park
maintenance through either
the annexation into an
existing district or creating
new maintenance districts.
Objective OS 7: Provide for
landscaping features to be
present in all major street and
circulation improvements.
Policy OS 7.1: Arterials and
major collector streets, where
feasible, should be designed to
include landscaping along the
edges and medians to enhance
these street systems as
aesthetic open space corridors.
OS 7.1.A
The City shall develop design guidelines and
standards for the construction of landscaping
and improvement of arterial and major
collector streets which are to be landscaped.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action.
Policy OS 7.2: Provide open
space and landscape
improvements along the
Highway 99 and Highway 152
right-of-way to present an
attractive entry to the City of
Chowchilla.
OS 7.2.A
Along Highways 99 and 152, buffer areas may
be designated as open space or require
property owners to landscape buffers along
these routes. This land should be either
acquired by the City or development
conditions attached to the land which requires
improvements and maintenance of the open
space area.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis. This was
partially achieved in the
development of the Industrial
Park Specific Plan.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
31 OS 7.2.B
Interchanges between state highways, and
interchanges between state highways and City
streets or roads shall be appropriately
landscaped to standards established by the
City.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective OS 9: Preserve
agricultural lands in recognition
of their economic, historic and
open space benefits and their
importance to the character of
the City of Chowchilla and to the
Central Valley.
Policy OS 9.2: Establish an
agriculture conservation
program for the preservation of
valuable agricultural land
outside the City’s Sphere of
Influence from urban
development through the use of
appropriate development
regulations and /or financial
incentives.
OS 9.2.A
The City shall explore the possibility of
establishing a fee program for all new
development in Chowchilla for the
conservation and preservation of agricultural
land.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
OS 9.2.B
The City shall evaluate proactive programs for
agricultural conservation and preservation
such as transfer of development rights,
purchase lease back, public and / or private
university purchase for research, etc.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective OS 10: Promote the
conservation of water within the
Chowchilla community.
Policy OS 10.1: Maintain
ordinances as necessary within
the Chowchilla Municipal Code
which promotes water
conservation.
OS 10.1.A
Maintain permanent water conservation
measures such as:
1. Continue enforcement of water waste
ordinances
2. Continue penalties for water waste
offenders
3. Enforce guidelines for drought tolerant
landscapes
4. Structure water rate schedules to encourage
conservation
The City remains committed
to a variety of water
conservation methods
including but not limited to:
reduced water day cycles,
enforcement of water waste
ordinance, issuing citations for
violators, and having
guidelines to promote the use
of drought tolerant
landscapes. The City is also
committed to enforcing
MWELO requirements on
development projects.
OS 10.1.B
Maintain water use limitations that could be
enacted by the City Council in the event of
The Council took swift action
during periods of drought in
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
32 severe drought. Measures could include, but
are not limited to, the following:
1. Limit all domestic outdoor
water usage to designated days
2. Limitations on all auto washing by
individuals, auto dealerships, and private and
charitable car washes
3. Prohibit domestic irrigation between 10:00
am and 7:00 pm
4. Designate specific types of landscape
irrigation to be discontinued
order to limit water usage
citywide.
Policy OS 10.2: Explore use of
alternative water sources within
the Chowchilla Community.
OS 10.2.A
Consider opportunities for usage of reclaimed
waste water for open space or agricultural
irrigation purposes in major developments
where it is cost effective to develop a water
reclamation facility and transport reclaimed
water to the user. Development of such a
system would require approval of the Regional
Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) and
meeting state and federal requirements.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
OS 10.2.B
Work with the Chowchilla Water District to
reroute irrigation water to Ash Slough and
Berenda Slough to promote groundwater
recharge.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy OS 10.3: Minimize the use
of water for landscape irrigation
by requiring new and
rehabilitated water
conservation landscape plans
for new development in the City.
OS 10.3.A
Establish standards for landscape review which
include preferred plants and sprinkler /
irrigation criteria.
The City has contracted with
an outside firm to provide
landscape plan review
services.
OS 10.3.B
Apply conservation requirement to all
landscapes within industrial, commercial,
institutional, multi-family residential common
areas, model homes and developer landscaped
areas.
The City is committed to
continuing this practice.
OS 10.3.C
Require projects to submit planting plans,
irrigation plans, irrigation schedules and water
use estimates for City approval prior to
issuance of building permits.
The City is committed to
continuing this practice.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
33 Objective OS 11: Ensure
adequate groundwater
reserves are maintained for
present and future domestic,
commercial, and industrial
uses.
Policy OS 11.1: Require
proponents of non-agricultural
water intensive land uses, which
will convert from usage of
surface water to exclusive use of
groundwater, to mitigate
groundwater impacts.
OS 11.1.A
Explore agreements with the Chowchilla Water
District to provide for water recharge and
ensure delivery of water for recharge during
drought periods.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy OS 11.2: The potential for
groundwater recharge basins
should be explored and should
they be feasible establish basins
within and around the City of
Chowchilla.
OS 11.2.B
Coordinate flood control efforts within new
development to promote establishment of
detention basins which enhance local
groundwater recharge.
The City is committed to
continuing this practice.
Objective OS 12: Ensure
groundwater quality is
maintained at a satisfactory
level for domestic water
consumption.
Policy OS 12.1: Avoid
degradation of groundwater
reserves by domestic and
industrial land uses.
OS 12.1.A
Seek to connect unincorporated development
within the urban fringe to the sewage
treatment network.
The City is currently working
on projects to extend
infrastructure to the nearby
community of Fairmead.
OS 12.1.B
Require proponents of industrial-oriented
projects to submit proposals for water use.
Encourage the reuse of water within industrial
systems.
The City is committed to
continuing this practice.
Objective OS 13: Encourage the
provision of open space areas
throughout the Planning Area
through the preservation and
enhancement of natural
features or the joint use of
other public facilities and / or
rights-of-ways.
Policy OS 13.1: To the extent
feasible, maintain sloughs and
OS 13.1.A
The City shall pursue the development of a
recreation trail system along Ash Slough and
Berenda Slough that connects the urban area
and Berenda Reservoir (See City of Chowchilla
Land Use Map located in pocket at end of
document).
Progress was made by
including this feature in the
development of the Industrial
Park Specific Plan. The City
continues to seek out grant
opportunities to support trail
projects. The City remains
committed to fulfilling this
action.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
34 water courses within the
Chowchilla Planning Area as
components of a possible
recreational trail system. Public
access within sensitive habitat
areas of the sloughs or
waterways shall be considered
individually to ensure protection
of the habitat resource.
Policy OS 13.3: Where
appropriate and feasible,
establish permanent
mechanisms to protect wetlands
and riparian corridors.
OS 13.3.A
The City shall preserve natural water courses,
wetlands and riparian corridors through
requirements of land dedication and open
space improvement imposed during the land
development process.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
OS 13.3.B
Establish programs in connection with
environmental review processes to protect
endangered wildlife and their habitats.
Programs established to protect wildlife and
their habitats may provide for the permanent
protection or relocation of wildlife habitat
areas.
The City remains committed
to continuing compliance with
this measure through the
hiring of biologists to conduct
site surveys on project sites
and implementing any
necessary mitigation
measures.
Policy OS 13.5: Promote the
preservation of existing mature
trees and encourage the
planting of appropriate shade
trees in new developments.
OS 13.5.A
Develop and adopt standards that provide for
the planting of shade trees in new residential
and commercial developments.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective OS 14: To promote
the City of Chowchilla’s cultural
resources as a means to
enhance the City’s identity as
an important center of the
Central Valley history.
Policy OS 14.2: Promote
neighborhood / City identity and
the role of historic preservation
in community enhancement.
OS 14.2.A
The City of Chowchilla shall actively pursue
establishing the Chowchilla Park Residential /
Social Heritage District to include portions of
Robertson Boulevard, North 6th and 7th
Streets and a portion of South 6th Street. This
includes documenting and recording historic
buildings, structures and sites in the confines
of the Chowchilla Park Residential / Social
Heritage District.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy OS 14.3: Promote an
understanding of the
significance of the City’s cultural
resources, the criteria for
historic designation, historic
design review processes,
OS 14.3.A
The City of Chowchilla shall provide
information to citizens, and the building
community about what to do upon discovery
of archaeological, cultural or historical
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
35 building permit requirements,
and methods for rehabilitating
and preserving historic
buildings, sites and landscapes.
resources, as well as, the treatment and
preservation of such resources.
Objective OS 15: Identify,
preserve and enhance
archaeological, cultural and
historical resources.
Policy 15.1: Require
archaeological studies by a
certified archeologist / historian
in areas determined by the City
or by a state or federal agency
to have potential archeological
or historical significance prior to
approval of development and
redevelopment projects.
OS 15.1.A
Prior to project approval, the City of
Chowchilla shall require the project applicant
to have a qualified professional archeologist /
historian conduct the following activities: 1) a
record research at the Southern San Joaquin
Valley Information Center at California State
University, Bakersfield and other appropriate
historical repositories to determine the extent
of previously recorded sites and surveys within
the project area; 2) a field survey to locate,
map and record prehistoric and historic
resources; and 3) prepare a cultural resource
inventory and evaluation reports meeting
California Office of Historic Preservation
Standards to document the results of the
record search and field survey, and to provide
significance evaluations and management
recommendations for any identified historical
resources with the project area.
The City requires archeological
surveys to be conducted as
needed for development
projects when identified
through the CEQA process.
OS 15.1.B
In the event that archaeological resources are
discovered during ground disturbance
activities, the City shall require that grading
and construction work within 100 feet of the
find shall be suspended until significance of the
features can be determined by a qualified
professional archaeologist. The City will
require that qualified archeologist make
recommendations for measures necessary to
protect the find, or to undertake data
recovery, excavation, analysis, and curation of
archaeological materials, as appropriate.
The City requires archeological
surveys to be conducted as
needed for development
projects when identified
through the CEQA process.
Any necessary mitigation
measures will be required to
be implemented.
Policy 15.2: Protect sites of
archaeological significance and
ensure compliance with all
applicable state and federal
cultural resources protection
and management laws in its
planning and project review
process.
OS 15.2.A
The City of Chowchilla shall restrict the
circulation of archeological resource location
information to prevent potential site
vandalism.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis in order to
prevent potential site
vandalism.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
36 Objective OS 16: To continue an
active program of identifying,
designating, protecting and
enhancing the City’s cultural
and historical resources.
Policy OS 16.1: Promote the
preservation and restoration of
historical sites and structures
within the City of Chowchilla of
local, regional, state or national
significance.
OS 16.1.A
The City of Chowchilla shall actively pursue a
comprehensive program of documenting
historic buildings, structures, districts, sites,
objects, landscape and natural resources.
The City conducted a historical
building inventory report. The
City remains committed to
continuing to do their part in
further documenting historic
city resources.
OS 16.1.B
The City of Chowchilla shall maintain a current
database of cultural resources and use that
database as a primary informational resource
for protecting cultural resources.
The City conducted a historical
building inventory report. The
City remains committed to
continuing to do their part in
further documenting historic
city resources.
OS 16.1.C
The City of Chowchilla shall continually update
the identification of registered cultural
resources and cultural resources eligible for
listing in local, state, and national registers.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis to track any
identified cultural resrouces.
Objective OS 17: To fully
integrate the consideration of
cultural resources an important
element of the City of
Chowchilla’s planning,
permitting and development
activities.
Policy OS 17.2: Promote and
encourage adaptive reuse of
historic buildings. Consistent
with health and safety, other
basic considerations, the City
shall be flexible in applying
building and zoning standards
to encourage continued use and
adaptive reuse of historic
buildings.
OS 17.2.A
The City of Chowchilla shall establish
construction standards for the preservation,
rehabilitation and reuse of cultural and historic
resources.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
OS 17.2.B
The City of Chowchilla shall develop standards
for monitoring of mitigation measures
established for the preservation, rehabilitation
or reuse of cultural or historic resources.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
37 OS 17.2.C
The City of Chowchilla shall apply the California
State Historical Building Code to ensure that
City building code requirements do not
compromise the integrity of significant cultural
resources, at the property owner’s request.
The City will continue its
practice of utilizing the CA
building code when reviewing
projects.
Policy OS 17.3: Utilize historic
preservation as a tool for
encouraging and supporting
mixed use development and
redevelopment of the City’s
urban core and Downtown
District.
OS 17.3.A
The City of Chowchilla shall use its design and
permit review process to encourage new
construction and reconstruction projects to be
compatible in scale and historic character of
the City’s downtown commercial districts and
surrounding residential neighborhoods.
The City developed the
Downtown Design Guidelines
to encourage construction and
reconstruction to be
compatible in scale and
historic character to existing
commercial buildings.
OS 17.2.B
The City of Chowchilla shall use its design and
permit review process to encourage the
compatibility of street design, public
improvements, and utility infrastructure with
cultural resources and historic character.
The City developed the
Downtown Design Guidelines
to encourage infrastructure to
be compatible with historical
character of the Downtown.
Objective OS 18: Maximize
public value from open space
for recreational uses.
Policy OS 18.2: Actively
participate with other
governmental entities (cities,
county, state, and federal) or
agencies in the acquisition,
management, and use of
recreational / open space lands
and facilities of mutual interest.
OS 18.2.A
Where a project involves potential open space,
natural resource reserves, or recreational
lands of interest to more than one entity, the
City shall work cooperatively with the other
involved agencies.
The City remains committed
to working cooperatively with
the other involved agencies on
fulfilling this action on an asneeded basis.
OS 18.2.B
To the extent feasible, large storm drainage
facilities shall be designed to accommodate
community open space use.
This continues to be a design
discussion when developers
are wanting to discuss the
design of future residential
subdivisions. The City is
committed to continuing to
support this action.
OS 18.2.C
The City shall work to identify and promote
potential shared arrangements for owning,
improving, and managing open space /
conservation / recreational areas of mutual
interest.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
OS 18.2.D The City remains committed
to providing public access to
open spaces resources such as
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
38 Provide access to public open space resources
except to those areas determined by the City
to be sensitive to human presence.
investing in improvements to
the Berenda Reservoir and by
promoting development of
trails along the sloughs.
OS 18.2.E
Take into account consideration of natural
habitat areas in developing linkages and in
preserving open space areas. Identify
alternative sites or linkages where sensitive
habitat areas have the potential to be
adversely affected.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective OS 19: Develop public
park lands at the local and
community levels to meet the
recreational needs of current
and future residents of
Chowchilla.
Policy OS 19.2: Establish
neighborhood parks at a ratio of
three (3) acres of neighborhood
park land / 1,000 residents.
OS 19.2.A
Neighborhood parks shall be of an efficient
size for operation and maintenance, generally
between three (3) and nine (9) acres.
The City is committed to
fulfilling its park space
requirements such as this one,
as new residential proposals
come in.
OS 19.2.B
Neighborhood parks shall have a general
service area of approximately onehalf (1/2)
mile radius, and to the extent possible located
to avoid patrons having to cross arterial and /
or minor or major collector streets, railroad
corridors or major waterways.
The City is committed to
fulfilling its park space
requirements such as this one,
as new residential proposals
come in.
OS 19.2.C
Neighborhood parks shall be designed to
promote a safe and clean environment for
recreation. The City will encourage
neighborhood park development to avoid
common rear and side yard property lines with
residential uses. Design of the park shall allow
visibility from the road.
The City is committed to
fulfilling its park space
requirements such as this one,
as new residential proposals
come in.
Policy OS 19.6: Establish
community parks at a ratio of
two (2) acres of park land per
1,000 residents.
OS 19.6.A
Minor community parks shall be of an efficient
size for function, safety, operation and
maintenance - generally between nine (9) and
fifteen (15) acres. Smaller minor community
parks may be developed where the need arises
and such facilities are compatible with the land
uses in the surrounding area.
The City is committed to
fulfilling its park space
requirements such as this one,
as new residential proposals
come in.
OS 19.6.B The City is committed to
fulfilling its park space
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
39 Major community parks shall be of an efficient
size for operation and maintenance, generally
between fifteen (15) and fifty (50) acres.
requirements such as this one,
as new residential proposals
come in.
OS 19.6.C
Minor and major community parks shall have a
general service area of approximately two (2)
mile radius, and located to provide adequate
access to arterial and / or minor or major
collector streets.
The City is committed to
fulfilling its park space
requirements such as this one,
as new residential proposals
come in.
OS 19.6.D
Minor and major community parks shall be
designed to promote a safe and clean
environment for recreation. The City of
Chowchilla will encourage development to
avoid common rear and side yard property
lines with residential uses. Design of the park
shall allow visibility from the road.
The City is committed to
fulfilling its park space
requirements such as this one,
as new residential proposals
come in.
OS 19.6.E
Whenever possible, parks shall be developed
in conjunction with other nonconflicting uses
such as storm drainage basins, water recharge,
water production and noise attenuation
measures.
The City is committed to
fulfilling its park space
requirements such as this one,
as new residential proposals
come in.
Policy OS 19.9: Discourage the
development of neighborhood
pocket parks in residential
neighborhoods unless such
parks are part of a planned
development and the long-term
maintenance of such facilities is
guaranteed by a legally
established maintenance
district.
OS 19.9.A
A pocket park in a residential neighborhood, if
permitted as part of a planned development,
shall be of an efficient size for safety, function,
operation and maintenance, generally
between one-quarter (0.25) to two (2) net
acres in size.
A recently approved 200-unit
subdivision included 2 pocket
parks to serve future
residents.
OS 19.9.B
A pocket park in a residential neighborhood, if
permitted as part of pursuant to a planned
development, shall have a general service area
of approximately one-quarter (0.25) mile
radius, and serve the specific interest of the
planned residential neighborhood.
A recently approved 200-unit
subdivision included 2 pocket
parks to serve future
residents.
OS 19.9.C
A residential neighborhood pocket park, if
permitted as part of a planned development,
shall be subject to a legally established
maintenance district that addresses long-term
operation and maintenance of the pocket park.
A recently approved 200-unit
subdivision included 2 pocket
parks to serve future
residents. This subdivision
would be required to annex
into an existing LLMD for ongoing maintenance.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
40 OS 19.9.D
The City of Chowchilla shall not accept
residential neighborhood pocket parks into its
maintained park system; therefore access to
the pocket park may be restricted to the
residents of the planned development / or the
maintenance district legally established for the
pocket park.
A recently approved 200-unit
subdivision included 2 pocket
parks to serve future
residents. This subdivision
would be required to annex
into an existing LLMD for ongoing maintenance, thereby these would not be accepted
into the City’s park system.
Objective OS 20: Encourage the
development of private
recreational facilities for
multifamily residential
projects.
Policy OS 20.2: Encourage
private development of
recreation facilities and
complement and supplement
the public recreational system.
OS 20.2.A
Private recreational facilities shall be
encouraged in multiple family residential
developments of five (5) units in size in order
to meet a portion of the open space and
recreation needs generated by the specific
development project.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective OS 22: Implement
feasible and reasonable
programs to improve air
quality in Chowchilla.
Policy OS 22.3: The creation of
dust during
construction/demolition
activities should be reduced to
the extent feasible.
OS 22.3.A
Work with the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution
Control District to reduce particulate emissions
from construction, grading, excavation, and
demolition through standard and/or special
conditions on these activities.
The City remains committed
to maintaining a good working
relationship with the SJVAPCD
to enforce district regulations
to reduce particulate
emissions.
OS 22.3.B
City seeks to reduce the urban heat island
effect in the City, which causes increased
temperatures and increases in ground level
ozone formation through methods such as:
• Increasing the amount of tree coverage in
the city.
• Green roofs and rooftop gardens. o The use
of reflective treatments on roofs (such as
those which qualify for the EPA/DOE’s Energy
Star rating).
• The use of cool pavements such as
permeable and light colored and reflective
pavements.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
41 OS 22.3.C
Develop and adopt a Tree Ordinance that
protects existing trees in the public right of
way and promotes the establishment of new
tree resources in public areas. The tree
ordinance could provide for the creation of a
Master Tree Plan that would include an
inventory of the City Forest including tree type,
condition and size, and a City-approved tree
planting list.
The City gained progress on
this by developing the City’s
urban forestry master plan.
The City also developed a
tree/planting list for the
Downtown and within the
Industrial Park Specific Plan.
Policy OS 22.4: Where feasible,
the City’s vehicle fleet should
include clean fuel, hybrid,
electric, or other fuel-efficient
vehicles, so long as their utility,
durability, and cost meets the
City’s needs.
OS 22.4.A
Update the City’s procurement policies to
include criteria for vehicle purchases that
implement this policy.
The City will continue to seek
grants from the SJVAPCD to
purchase additional clean fleet
city vehicles.
Policy OS 22.5: The City shall
encourage the development of
fueling stations that distribute
alternative fuels (such as
methanol, ethanol, compressed
natural gas, and biodiesel) to
support alternative fuel vehicles.
OS 22.5.A
Update the City’s Building and Zoning codes as
needed to provide for fueling stations for
alternative fuels.
The City updated their Zoning
Ordinance to allow for
“electric vehicle recharging
facilities" as an allowed use
by-right in every zone in the
City.
Objective OS 23: To Implement
and enforce State and Regional
regulations pertaining to
greenhouse gas emissions and
climate change.
Policy OS 23.1: The City
supports local, regional, and
statewide efforts to reduce the
emission of greenhouse gases
linked to climate change.
OS 23.1.A
Within one year of the adoption of this
General Plan, the City will endeavor complete
a Greenhouse Gas Inventory as a result of an
acceptable methodology and available
published data that provides an inventory of
greenhouse gas emissions from manmade
sources in the City.
The City hired an outside
consultant to complete a
Greenhouse Gas Inventory for
the City back in 2015.
OS 23.1.B
Within one year of the completion of the
Greenhouse Gas Inventory, the City will
prepare a Climate Action Plan (CAP) that
identifies desired goals for reducing manmade
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, establishes
resiliency and adaptation programs to prepare
for potential impacts of climate change, and
provides a phased implementation plan to
achieve these goals. The CAP will establish a
greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
42 15% percent below 2007 levels by 2020,
consistent with California Assembly Bill 32, the
Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB32)
and the guidance provided in the associated
California Air Resources Board Climate Change
Scoping Plan approved in December 2008. The
CAP will also outline a strategy to achieve 1990
GHG levels by 2020 and an 80% reduction from
1990 GHG levels by 2050 in accordance with
California State Executive Order S-3-05.
Objective OS 24: To ensure that
public and private development
practices integrate design,
construction, and appliances.
Policy OS 24.1: All public and
private development—including
homes, commercial, and
industrial should be designed to
be energy-efficient.
OS 24.1.A
Work with the local energy providers and
developers on voluntary incentive based
programs to encourage the use of energy
efficient designs and equipment.
The City remains committed
to working with PG&E and the
SJVAPCD to offer incentives
for future projects to
incorporate energy efficient
designs. Within the last few
years, the City has added solar
to their WWTP facility and City
Corporation Yard to promote
clean energy.
OS 24.1.B
Promote enhanced energy conservation
standards for new construction through
informational handouts, outreach to the
construction industry, or other methods.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
OS 24.1.C
City buildings and facilities will be operated in
the most energy-efficient manner without
endangering public health and safety and
without reducing public safety or service
levels.
Within the last few years, the
City has added solar to their
WWTP facility and City
Corporation Yard to promote
clean energy. The City also
recently underwent an energy
efficient retrofit for facilities at
City Hall.
OS 24.1.D
To the extent practical, integrate appropriate
renewable energy and clean generation
technologies into existing City facilities, such as
solar, wind, biofuel, cogeneration, and fuel
cells to power City facilities.
Within the last few years, the
City has added solar to their
WWTP facility and City
Corporation Yard to promote
clean energy. The City also
recently underwent an energy
efficient retrofit for facilities at
City Hall.
Policy OS 25.1: The City
supports the use of green
building practices in the
planning, design, construction,
management, renovation,
OS 25.1.A
Develop a voluntary, market-driven Green
Building Program that includes performance
standards, guidelines, review criteria,
incentives, and implementation schedules for
private sector development, with criteria
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
43 operations, and demolition of all
private buildings and projects
tailored to project types (i.e., residential,
commercial, retail), size, and location.
OS 25.1.B
Identify, evaluate, and provide incentives to
encourage projects that incorporate green
building practices and site design, including the
potential for certification through the City’s
Building Department.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
OS 25.1.C
Facilitate the professional development and
education of City staff to learn about green
building practices and to have the tools to
evaluate development proposals.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy OS 25.2: The City
supports the use of green
building practices in the
planning, design, construction,
management, renovation,
operations, and demolition of all
facilities constructed, owned,
managed, or financed by the
City.
OS 25.1.A
Evaluate and update the City’s procurement
processes to provide incentives to bidders who
propose the use of green building practices in
the construction of City buildings and facilities.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Public Facilities & Services Element
Implementation Measure Status
Objective PF 1: Provide
sufficient public facilities and
services prior to or concurrent
with planned development.
Policy PF 1.2: Encourage the
concurrent (as opposed to
piecemeal) annexation of
adjacent unincorporated
properties in order to facilitate
the formation of assessment
districts, benefit districts, and
other financial mechanisms
which will provide public
facilities and services in an
efficient and effective manner.
PF 1.2.A
Future annexation applications shall include a
full and complete analysis of the public
facilities and services required for the
proposed development, and provide an
analysis which includes the surrounding
property to determine: 1) if expansion of the
proposed annexation will be beneficial to
accommodate the adequate development and
financing of required public services; or 2) if
existing public facilities and services to existing
development require improvements to
maintain or meet current level-of-service
standards.
This was done for the eastside
and the westside annexations.
The City is committed to
continuing these practices for
any future annexation
applications.
Objective PF 2: New
development shall pay fees as
necessary to meet all identified
costs associated with new
development, including but not
limited to public facilities and
services where a nexus can be
PF 2.2.A
During deliberation on proposed projects, the
Planning Department shall recommend a
finding to the Planning Commission and City
Council in their staff report which addresses
the adequacy of public facilities and services
and the method by which the proposed
City staff will continue to
include an analysis on the
adequacy of public facilities
and services and the method
by which the proposed
development is to provide
these public facilities.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
44 shown qualitatively and/or
quantitatively.
Policy PF 2.2: New development
shall be responsible for paying a
financial contribution to
mitigate the effect of the
development on the provision of
such public services as solid
waste disposal, public
education, water, drainage,
sewer systems, and school
facilities
development is to provide for these public
facilities and services as part of the
development.
PF 2.2.B
As a material part of approving annexation of
any property for residential development into
the City and in consideration of the City
entering into any annexation and/or
development agreement and as a public
benefit to the Community, the City shall refer
developers to the local school districts in order
for the school districts to ensure the
availability of adequate school facilities
(including permanent schools facilities, interim
school facilities, and District-wide support
facilities) to house students generated by
proposed projects.
City staff will continue to
recommend that developers
consult with the school district
on facility needs.
Objective PF 3: Maintain
existing public facilities and
services.
Policy PF 3.1: Existing public
facilities shall be upgraded as
they become deteriorated or
obsolete.
PF 3.1.B
Include in the Capital Improvement Program
the upgrading of existing facilities that have
become deteriorated or obsolete to the
degree that public service has been
diminished.
The City is committed to
continuing to do this as part of
the CIP update process.
Objective PF 4: Provide an
adequate system of supply and
distribution of quality water to
support the General Plan level
of development.
Policy PF 4.4:
When necessary and practical,
the City will cooperate with
other water agencies to acquire
water for the recharge,
replenishment and/or banking
PF 4.4.A
The City shall continue to participate with
other water agencies in groundwater recharge
efforts, as practical, using identified recharge
areas such as Brenda Reservoir, Brenda Slough,
and Ash Slough. This participation may include
the development of multi-use open space
corridors or recreation facilities combined with
recharge facilities.
The City will continue to
participate with other water
agencies in these types of
discussions.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
45 of groundwater for future
demand.
Policy PF 4.5: The City shall
extend water service to new
areas based on its ability to
meet domestic and fire flow
needs of the area.
PF 4.5.A
The City shall prepare and maintain a water
network analysis which demonstrates its ability
to meet development standards and identifies
system shortfalls.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective PF 5: Ensure provision
of sufficient wastewater
collection and treatment
facilities to support the existing
and future development at
General Plan build-out.
Policy PF 5.1: Continue to
provide sewer services and
operate major public facilities.
PF 5.1.A
The City shall acquire land and continue to
pursue funding for the planning and expansion
of the wastewater system as part of its Capital
Improvement Program.
The City is committed to
continuing discussions on
acquiring land for the planning
and expansion of the
wastewater system.
Objective PF 6: Provide a
stormwater drainage system
that serves the General Plan
level of development in a
planned and orderly manner.
Policy PF 6.2: The City shall
require the extension of storm
drains to new areas in
accordance with the phasing of
a storm drainage master plan.
PF 6.2.A
Prepare an updated Master Storm Drainage
Plan to support General Plan and Phasing Area
Concept Plan land uses, including proposed
drainage facilities and estimated costs.
The City is currently working
to contract with a firm to
complete this service.
Objective PF 7: Maintain storm
drainage facilities to preserve
their function and capacity.
Policy PF 7.2: Continue to
require new development to
discharge storm water runoff at
volumes no greater than the
capacity of any portion of the
existing downstream system by
utilizing detention or retention
or other approved methods,
unless the project is providing
drainage pursuant to an
adopted drainage plan.
PF 7.2.A
Consolidate policies, programs, and standards
for flood control and storm drainage in a Storm
Drainage ordinance.
The City is currently working
to contract with a firm to
complete this service.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
46 Objective PF 8: Provide timely,
functional, safe, and attractive
public buildings and facilities in
order to provide high levels of
public service.
PF 8.1.A
Create Master Plans or Specific Plans for the
Downtown Commercial District to ensure the
needs of expanding City space for building and
parking are adequately met.
The City completed
Downtown Design Guidelines
which includes plans for both
buildings and infrastructure. If
there is a need in the future to
further those plans with the
development of a master plan
or specific plan, the city will
pursue grant opportunities to
assist with funding them.
Objective PF 9: Assist,
coordinate and cooperate with
the school districts in planning
for and providing educational
facilities with sufficient
permanent and interim
capacity to meet the needs of
current and projected future
student enrollments.
Policy PF 9.2: Support school
sites which are appropriately
located and sized within
attendance areas.
PF 9.2.A
Siting criteria for new schools should include
the following:
1. Elementary schools should be planned as an
integral part of neighborhoods, located away
from major Arterial streets and linked with
recreational parks and community corridors
serving residential neighborhoods, and
situated to reduce or eliminate the need for
student transportation.
2. Middle schools and high schools should be
located with respect to the student
populations which they serve, with direct
access provided from Collector or Arterial
streets.
3. Middle schools are generally considered
compatible with most residential and park
uses, but are not generally considered
compatible with retail commercial and general
industrial uses.
4. High schools are generally considered
compatible with most residential, park, service
commercial, office, and light industrial uses,
but are not generally considered compatible
with retail commercial and general industrial
uses.
The City will continue to
coordinate with the local
school districts when it comes
time for the planning of future
school sites to ensure planning
efforts are cohesive with any
efforts the city is working on
at the time.
Policy PF 9.3: Notify the school
districts of newly proposed
developments as soon in the
review process as the project
has a complete description
acceptable to the City to allow
ample time for the assessment
PF 9.3.A
The City, local school districts, and the
developer of proposed residential
developments shall work together to the
extent that California Law allows, to attain
reasonable voluntary agreements that will
insure that school facilities required by the
The City recently worked with
a developer and both school
districts to develop a
voluntary agreement for a
200-lot and a 28-lot
subdivision application. The
City will continue to support
this measure as necessary.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
47 of impacts on school facility
needs.
development are funding in a timely and
adequate manner.
Policy PF 9.4: Whenever
possible, school sites should be
integrated with parks and
community recreation corridors
to maximize the benefits of
those facilities as pedestrian
and bicycle access with a
minimum of interruption by the
street system.
PF 9.4.A
Where feasible, work with the school districts
to design and implement safe pedestrian and
bicycle transportation facilities which promote
the use of these trails as alternative
transportation to school sites. Where crossings
of these facilities will promote access to
schools and otherwise enhance alternative
transit modes, the City should investigate
cooperative development of such facilities
with the school districts, State agencies, and
public utilities.
The City will continue to seek
safe routes to school funding
to complete necessary
sidewalk improvements to
ensure access to and from
schools.
Objective PF 11: Provide for
adequate recycling programs
and solid waste disposal
capacity.
Policy PF 11.1: Promote the
reduction of the amount of
waste disposed of in landfills by:
reducing the amount of solid
waste generated (waste
reduction); reusing as much of
the solid waste as possible
(recycling);utilizing the energy
and nutrient value of the solid
waste (waste to energy and
composting); and properly
disposing of the remaining solid
waste (landfill disposal).
PF 11.1.A
The City of Chowchilla shall continue to
investigate alternatives and implement source
reduction at the household level, and methods
of community-wide recycling and composting
as ways of reducing waste and increasing the
longevity of the Fairmead Sanitary Landfill.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Public Safety Element
Implementation Measure Status
Objective PS 1: Minimize risks
of potential property damage
and personal injury posed by
geologic or seismic activity.
Policy PS 1.1: Areas within the
2040 General Plan Planning
Area know to be subject to
geologic or seismic instability
(e.g., liquefaction, slumping)
shall be designated as Open
Space to prohibit development
PS 1.1.A
The City of Chowchilla shall rely on the most
current and comprehensive geologic hazard
mapping available to assist in identifying and
designating areas of known or questionable
geologic and seismic hazard conditions Open
Space on the 2040 General Plan Land Use
Diagram, as well as for evaluating potential
geologic or seismic hazards associated with
new and redevelopment projects.
The city is committed to
continue analyzing geologic
hazards for future project
proposals through the CEQA
process. The City will
incorporate any necessary
mitigation measures as
identified through the CEQA
process.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
48 and avoid creating a potential
public safety hazard.
Policy PS 1.2: Geologic and
engineering studies are required
for all new and redevelopment
projects where known or
questionable geological or
seismic hazard conditions exist.
PS 1.2.A
Where questionable geological or seismic
conditions exist, the City of Chowchilla shall
require geologic and soils studies to identify
potential hazards and, if applicable, measures
to mitigate identified hazards as part of the
approval process for all new or redevelopment
projects prior to issuing grading permits.
The City will continue to work
with the City Engineer to
determine when it’s necessary
to require a geologic and soils
students and will enforce any
mitigation measures as
necessary in order to decrease
impacts.
Policy PS 1.3: Geologic and
engineering studies are required
for all public and critical facility
projects (e.g., school, hospital,
utility substation, water storage
reservoir, wastewater
treatment facility, public safety
building, bridges and
overpasses).
PS 1.3.A
All new and redevelopment projects, utilities,
public or critical facility projects that required
geologic and engineering studies shall be
designed, sited and constructed in a manner
that mitigates the risks of potential property
damage and personal injury associated with
the specific geologic and / or seismic
conditions identified in the project geologic
and engineering studies to minim shall identify
shall be constructed in a manner that mitigates
site specific geotechnical challenges and
minimizes the risk to the public from seismic
hazards.
The City will continue to be
cognizant of siting for all
future city projects in order to
mitigates site specific
geotechnical challenges and
minimized the risk to the
public from seismic hazards.
Policy PS 1.4: Ensure new and
redevelopment projects comply
with adopted seismic and
geotechnical requirements of
the Uniform Building Code.
PS 1.4.A
The City of Chowchilla shall continue to
incorporate appropriate earthquake
prevention standards, as they become
available, into the City uniform building codes
and require all new structures be engineered
to meet seismic safety code standards.
The City is committed to
ensuring all new construction
conforms to the latest uniform
building codes.
Policy PS 1.5: Support and
encourage seismic upgrades to
older homes and structures in
the City of Chowchilla that may
be structurally deficient.
PS 1.5.A
The City of Chowchilla shall identify
unreinforced masonry buildings and other
buildings that would be at risk during seismic
events and continue to promote strengthening
of these buildings.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
PS 1.5.B
The City of Chowchilla shall identify and
promote programs that encourage property
owners to protect their homes and structures
against seismic hazards.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
PS 1.5.C
The City of Chowchilla shall provide to the
public an information guide for property
owners on how to reinforce or rehabilitate
The City remains committed
to providing this information
on an on-going basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
49 existing homes and structures more seismic
resilient.
PS 1.6.D
The City of Chowchilla shall provide the public
with information on how to be prepared for a
seismic event, and minimize related damage or
threat to health and public safety.
The City remains committed
to providing this information
on an on-going basis.
Objective PS 2: Minimize risks
of potential property damage
and personal injury from
flooding.
Policy PS 2.2: Development of
urban uses, with the exception
of passive recreation use areas
and pedestrian / bicycle trails
within a floodway or floodplain
subject to a 100-year flood
event shall be prohibited.
PS 2.2.A
New and redevelopment projects shall provide
site plans that identify applicable floodways,
floodplains or other potential flood hazards.
The City will continue to
analyze future projects to
identify any applicable
floodways, floodplains or
other potential flood hazards.
PS 2.2.B
The City of Chowchilla shall only approve new
residential, commercial or industrial, or
redevelopment projects when the project is
shown to be protected from a 100-year flood.
The City remains committed
to continue approving projects
outside of the 100-year flood
zone.
Policy PS 2.3: Preserve
floodways and floodplains for
non-urban uses with the
exception of passive or active
recreational development may
be allowed in a floodplain with
appropriate measures that
avoid or minimize damage to
recreation or structural
improvements.
PS 2.3.A
The floodways of Ash and Berenda Sloughs, to
the extent feasible, shall be preserved in their
natural state, and shall not be channelized or
otherwise altered. Floodways should remain
undeveloped and allowed to function as
natural flood protection features in the City
where flood waters are temporary conveyed
during storm events.
The City will continue to
protect the integrity of the
sloughs to the extent possible.
PS 2.3.B
The floodways of Ash Slough or Berenda
Slough are not to be modified to
accommodate new or redevelopment projects
in the City beyond the installation of storm
drain outfalls, utilities or bridges, or to restore
floodway capacity, stabilize slough banks or to
restore plant or wildlife habitat.
The City will continue to
protect the integrity of the
sloughs to the extent possible.
Policy PS 2.4: Ensure that
potential flooding impacts,
including on-site flood damage,
and potential inundation, are
adequately addressed through
PS 2.4.A
The City of Chowchilla’s development review
process shall ensure no residential,
commercial or industrial land use project is
The City remains committed
to continue approving projects
outside of the 100-year flood
zone.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
50 the environmental review
process and appropriate
mitigation is imposed.
constructed within floodway or a 100- year
floodplain.
PS 2.5.A
The City of Chowchilla’s development review
process shall ensure no public or private
infrastructure (e.g., bridge), or utility project
constructed within a floodway or a 100-year
floodplain will compromise the health, safety,
and welfare of the City.
The City remains committed
to continue approving
infrastructure or utility
projects outside of the 100-
year flood zone.
Policy PF 2.5: Establish and
maintain evacuation routes for
areas that could be affected by
flooding or dam failure, with
special emphasis on critical and
emergency facilities.
PS 2.5.A
Roads that provide access to urban uses, in
particular to critical facilities (e.g., school,
hospital, utility substation, water storage
reservoir, wastewater treatment facility, public
safety building, bridges and overpasses) should
also be prohibited within a floodway or
floodplain which is subject to 100-year flood.
The City remains committed
to ensuring infrastructure
projects remain outside of the
100-year flood zone.
Objective PS 3: Minimize risks
of potential property damage
and personal injury in the event
of a dam failure.
Policy PS 3.1: The City of
Chowchilla, in cooperation with
the County of Madera, shall
continue to maintain a disaster
relief plan that addresses
potential flood inundation in the
areas of Eastman Lake or
Berenda Reservoir in the event
of a dam failure.
PS 3.1.A
The City of Chowchilla shall review evacuation
plans in the City’s emergency management
plan, as periodically amended, for the
inundation areas regularly to ensure they are
accurate and up to date.
The City will continue to
review and update emergency
management plans as needed.
PS 3.1.B
The City of Chowchilla shall work the California
Department of Water Resources to ensure
adequate funding is allocated for inspections
of Buchanan and Berenda Dams, and that
inspections and required maintenance are
being carried out.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
PS 3.1.C
The City of Chowchilla shall maintain an
emergency evacuation plans in the City’s
emergency management plan for the safe
evacuation of people from areas subject to
inundation from failure of Buchanan and /or
Berenda Dam. Plans shall be reviewed annual
The City will continue to
review and update emergency
management plans as needed.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
51 and, if necessary, updated to ensure the
evacuation plans are accurate and up to date.
PS 3.1.D
The City of Chowchilla shall investigate and
implement, when feasible, measures for urban
development in a dam inundation area that
offers protection from flooding and provide
the public with information on how to be
prepared for a flood in the event of a dam
failure.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Objective PS 4: Minimize risks
of potential property damage
and personal injury from
wildland fires.
Policy PS 4.1: New and
redevelopment projects in a
designated moderate fire
hazard severity zone shall
comply with the Wildland-Urban
Interface Fire Area Building
Standards.
PS 4.1.A
The City of Chowchilla shall evaluate all new
and redevelopment projects located adjacent
to Ash or Berenda Sloughs to assess it
vulnerability to fire and it potential as source
of fire.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action for
applicable projects proposed
near the sloughs.
Policy PS 4.2: New and
redevelopment projects in which
the elimination of a wildland fire
hazard would require the
significant removal of, or
damage to, established trees
and other riparian vegetation
associated with Ash Slough or
Berenda Slough shall not be
permitted.
PS 4.2.A
The City of Chowchilla shall review all new and
redevelopment projects proposed within 500
feet of top of bank of Ash or Berenda Slough
for conformity with the Wildland-Urban
Interface Code. Development within
designated Fire Hazard Severity Zone shall be
in compliance with California Public Resources
Code Section 4291.
The City will review all
projects within 500-feet of the
sloughs to ensure
conformance with the
Wildland-Urban Interface
Code.
Objective PS 5: Protect
property in urbanized areas
from fire hazards.
Policy PS 5.1: Ensure that new
fire stations, personnel and
equipment are provided to
sufficiently meet the needs of
the City as it grows in size and
population.
PS 5.1.A
The City of Chowchilla shall endeavor to meet /
maintain a response time of five (5) minutes
for all areas within the City Limits.
The City remains committed
to maintaining this response
time.
PS 5.1.B
The City of Chowchilla shall endeavor to meet
and maintain a ratio of 2.8 fire personnel per
1,000 population.
The City remains committed
to maintaining this ratio of
personnel.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
52 PS 5.1.C
The City of Chowchilla shall integrate fire
safety considerations in the planning review
and approval process.
The City will continue to
integrate fire safety
consideration in the planning
review and approval process.
PS 5.1.D
The City of Chowchilla shall acquire land and
construct additional fire stations to maintain
acceptable response times throughout the
2040 General Plan Planning Area.
The City has identified future
locations for public safety
facilities.
PS 5.1.E
Fire stations and facilities shall be considered
consistent with all land use designations in the
General Plan and all zoning districts. The
station’s architectural design and landscape of
new fire stations shall be complementary with
surrounding land uses.
The City will only identify
future public safety facilities in
areas of the City that are
zoned Public Facility.
Policy PS 5.2: New and
redevelopment projects shall
mitigate fire hazards related to
urban development or patterns
of urban development as they
are identified.
PS 5.2.A
The City of Chowchilla shall analyze the
additional service demands for fire services
and, as necessary, require new development
to provide funding to meet the cost of
expanding the service.
All new development would
be required to pay a public
safety impact fee for the
construction of future
facilities.
PS 5.2.B
The City of Chowchilla shall require property
owners to remove fire hazards, structures,
materials and debris as directed by the Fire
Department.
The City’s code enforcement
department will continue to
require property owners to
remove fire hazards,
structures, and additional
materials and debris to reduce
fire risk hazards.
Policy PS 5.3: Ensure that
potential fire impacts are
adequately addressed through
the environmental review
process and appropriate
mitigation is imposed.
PS 5.3.A
The City of Chowchilla development review
and approval process shall continue to involve
the Chowchilla Volunteer Fire Department.
The City will continue to
involve the Fire Chief or their
designee during the
development review process.
PS 5.3.B
The City of Chowchilla’s development review
process shall ensure no residential,
commercial or industrial land use project is
constructed without adequate fire services,
personnel, equipment available.
The City will continue to
involve the Fire Chief or their
designee during the
development review process
to ensure that no residential,
commercial or industrial land
use project is constructed
without adequate fire
services, personnel,
equipment available.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
53 Policy PS 5.4: Pursue strategies
to improve the City of
Chowchilla’s Insurance Service
Office (ISO) rating.
PS 5.4.A
The City of Chowchilla shall provide fire station
facilities, equipment and staffing necessary to
improve the City’s ISO rating of 5.
The recently approved
Measure N will ensure that
the necessary resources will
continue to be invested into
local public safety facilities.
PS 5.4.B
The City of Chowchilla shall identify noncontiguous streets and other barriers to rapid response and pursue measures to eliminate
the barriers.
The City will continue to
identify barriers to response
times and pursue measure to
eliminate these barriers. This
includes the HWY 99/233
improvement project which
will ensure better connectivity
between east and west
Chowchilla.
Policy PS 5.10: The City of
Chowchilla shall maintain a
weed abatement program to
ensure clearing of dry
vegetation. Weed abatement
activities shall be conducted in a
manner consistent with all
applicable environmental
regulations.
PS 5.10.A
Continue with an intensive weed abatement
program to minimize fire hazards near urban
uses.
The City will continue their
intensive weed abatement
program.
Objective PS 6: Provide high
quality emergency services to
protect life and property in the
City of Chowchilla.
Policy PS 6.1: Provide for
efficient and cost effective fire
and emergency medical service
to minimize potential injury, loss
or destruction to persons or
property.
PS 6.1.B
Potential fire hazards shall be identified in
project review and shall be mitigated to an
acceptable level.
City staff will continue to work
together during the
development review stage to
identify any fire hazards and
take necessary steps to
mitigate to an acceptable
level.
PS 6.1.C
To the extent feasible, the City of Chowchilla
shall maintain Fire Marshall inspection services
to ensure that new and remodel construction
complies with Uniform Fire Code
requirements, and that commercial and
industrial buildings are meeting minimum fire
prevention and safety requirements.
The City’s Code Enforcement
department will continue to
ensure that all new
construction and remodels
conform to the Fire Code
requirements.
PS 6.1.D
Maintain mutual aid with Madera County.
The City will maintain mutual
aide with Madera County.
PS 6.1.E The City will continue to
maintain emergency fire
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
54 Maintain emergency fire dispatch services at
an acceptable level and to the extent feasible
maintain mutual aid communications channels
with Madera County Central Dispatch.
dispatch services at an
acceptable level and to the
extent feasible maintain
mutual aid communications
channels with Madera County
Central Dispatch.
Policy PS 6.2: Minimize urban
fire hazards within the
Chowchilla Planning Area.
PS 6.2.A
The City of Chowchilla shall minimize the
dependency of new commercial, industrial,
and mixed-use development on fire fighting
personnel and equipment by requiring on-site
fire suppression systems (e.g., sprinklers,
alarm), utilization fire resistant construction
material and other measures, as appropriate.
The City will continue to
ensure that all new
construction conforms to the
building code when it comes
to fire suppression resources.
PS 6.2.B
All new development shall be constructed
according to the fire safety and structural
standards contained in the latest adopted
Uniform Building Code (UBC) and related
regulations.
The City will continue to
ensure that all new
development is constructed
according to the fire safety
and structural standards
contained in the latest
adopted Uniform Building
Code (UBC) and related
regulations.
Objective PS 7: Provide highquality police services to all residents and businesses in the
City of Chowchilla.
Policy PS 7.2: Promote
community order by preventing
criminal activity, enforcing laws,
and meeting community police
service demands.
PS 7.2.A
Maintain the 911 emergency system and
promote Neighborhood Watch systems and
similar crime prevention activities and
programs through schools and community
organizations.
The City will continue to
support neighborhood and
school organizations regarding
public safety measures. The
police department regularly
holds coffee with a cop events
throughout the city to engage
the community.
PS 7.2.B
Design defensible public and private spaces to
minimize opportunities for criminal activity.
The City will continue to
engage the Police Department
during the project review
stage to ensure spaces are
designed to detract
opportunities for criminal
activity.
PS 7.2.C
Maintain mutual aid agreements with Madera
County and neighboring County law
enforcement agencies and the California
Highway Patrol.
The City will work to maintain
mutual aid agreements with
Madera County and
neighboring County law
enforcement agencies and the
California Highway Patrol.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
55 PS 7.2.D
Law enforcement hazards shall be identified in
project review and shall be prevented or
mitigated to an acceptable level.
The City will continue to
engage the Police Department
during the project review
stage to ensure hazards are
identified and mitigated to an
acceptable level.
Objective PS 8: To provide
protection to the public
through adequate police
staffing and related resources,
effective law enforcement and
the incorporation of crime
prevention features in new
development.
Policy PS 8.4: The City of
Chowchilla shall promote the
use of building and site design
features as a means for crime
prevention and reduction.
PS 8.4.A
The City of Chowchilla development review
and approval process shall continue to involve
the Chowchilla Police Department.
The City will continue to
engage the Police Department
during the project review
stage.
Objective PS 9: New
development shall pay fees as
necessary to meet all identified
costs associated with new
development.
Policy PS 9.1: Ensure that
potential law enforcement
needs are adequately addressed
through the environmental
review process and appropriate
mitigation is imposed.
PS 9.2.B
The City of Chowchilla’s development review
process shall ensure no residential,
commercial or industrial land use project is
constructed without adequate law
enforcement services, personnel, equipment
available.
The City will continue to
engage the Police Department
during the project review
stage to ensure no residential,
commercial or industrial land
use project is constructed
without adequate law
enforcement services,
personnel, equipment
available.
Policy PS 9.2: New development
shall be responsible for paying a
financial contribution to
mitigate the effect of the
development on the provision of
such public services as police
and fire protection, solid waste
disposal, public education,
water, drainage, and sewer
facilities.
PS 9.2.A
During deliberation on proposed projects, the
Planning Department shall include a finding in
their staff report which addresses the
adequacy of public services and the method by
which the proposed development is to provide
for these public services as part of the
development.
The City will continue to
address the adequacy of
public services and the
method by which the
proposed development is to
provide for these public
services as part of the
development in staff reports.
Policy PS 9.3: The City shall
acquire land and construct
additional structures for fire and
police services to maintain
PS 9.3.A
The City shall analyze the additional service
demands for fire and police services and, as
necessary, require new development to
The City will continue to
analyze the additional service
demands for fire and police
services and, as necessary,
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
56 acceptable response times
throughout the General Plan
Area.
provide funding to meet the cost of expanding
the service.
require new development to
provide funding to meet the
cost of expanding the service.
PS 9.3.B
Public buildings and facilities shall be
considered consistent with all land use
designations in the General Plan and all zoning
districts. The architectural design and
landscaping of new public buildings and
facilities shall be complementary with
surrounding land uses.
The City will only identify
future public safety facilities in
areas of the City that are
zoned Public Facility.
Objective PS 10: Protect the
City of Chowchilla and its
environment from harmful
effects of hazardous materials.
Policy PS 10.10: Business
practices using; storing or
producing hazardous materials
shall be located at a safe
distance from other uses that
may be adversely affected by
such activities. Sensitive
receptors such as schools,
hospitals, day care centers,
convalescent homes, and other
immobile populations shall be
considered during the review
process.
PS 10.10.A
The City of Chowchilla shall restrict the storage
of hazardous material in industrial areas which
are located near sensitive receptors.
The City will continue to
restrict the storage of
hazardous material in
industrial areas which are
located near sensitive
receptors.
Policy PS 10.11: Any risks
involving the disposal,
transport, manufacture, storage
and handling of hazardous
material in the City of
Chowchilla shall be evaluated in
the project review and approval
process.
PS 10.11.A
City of Chowchilla shall coordinate with
Madera County to provide educational
opportunities for generation of small quantity,
household and agricultural waste products
regarding their responsibilities for source
reduction and proper and safe hazardous
waste management.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
PS 10.11.B
The City of Chowchilla shall prohibit the
transport of hazardous materials through the
City on Highway 233.
To the extent possible, the
City will prohibit the transport
of hazardous materials
through the City on Highway
233.
PS 10.11.C
The City of Chowchilla shall adopt current
versions of the Uniform Fire Code to regulate
the storage of hazardous substances.
The City will continue to
update the latest codes.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
57 PS 10.11.D
The City of Chowchilla shall require full
environmental review, including early public
notification, of any proposal to establish a
licensed hazardous substance treatment,
storage, or disposal facility within the 2040
General Plan Planning Area or Sphere of
Influence.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
PS 10.11.E
The City of Chowchilla shall consider the
potential harmful effects from toxic air
contaminants or emissions on sensitive
receptors when approving the siting of new
industrial facilities or when a change is
proposed in existing industrial uses.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
PS 10.11.F
The City of Chowchilla shall coordinate with
Madera County and the California Highway
Patrol to establish designated travel routes
through the 2040 General Plan Planning Area
for vehicles transporting hazardous materials.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
PS 10.11.G
The City of Chowchilla shall coordinate with
the Madera County Department of
Environmental Health for the implementation
of the Hazardous Material Disclosure Law.
The City will continue to
coordinate with the Madera
County Department of
Environmental Health when
there are new project
proposals.
PS 10.11.H
The City of Chowchilla shall identify potential
users and producers of hazardous materials at
the time of permit application and mitigate
dangers associated with these materials.
The City will remains
committed to identifying
potential users and producers
of hazardous materials at the
time of permit application and
mitigate dangers associated
with these materials.
Policy PS 10.12: Separate,
buffer and protect sensitive
receptors from significant
sources of air pollutants to the
greatest extent possible.
PS 10.12.A
New and redevelopment projects with
sensitive receptors within 500 feet of an
existing or planned highway, arterial or major
collector shall be designed with consideration
of site and building orientation, and
incorporate best available technology for
improved air quality and flow, ventilation and
filtration to lessen potential health risks due to
the project’s proximity to the roadway.
For projects within 500-feet of
a major roadway, the City will
incorporate best available
technology for improved air
quality and flow, ventilation
and filtration to lessen
potential health risks due to
the project’s proximity to the
roadway.
PS 10.12.B
To the extent allowable by State Law, the City
of Chowchilla shall prohibit new school
The City will prohibit future
construction of school sites
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
58 facilities, with the exception of “bus barns” or
maintenance facilities to be developed within
one-quarter mile of a known industrial facility
permitted to emit hazardous air pollutant or
within one quarter mile of any land designated
as Light Industrial or Heavy Industrial.
within one-quarter mile of a
known industrial facility.
Objective PS 11: Minimize
public exposure risks
associated with the storage,
transport and disposal of
hazardous materials.
Policy PS 11.1: Ensure
hazardous materials used in
business and industry is used,
stored, handled and disposed of
properly.
PS 11.1.A
City of Chowchilla shall provide the resources
to ensure that hazardous materials used,
stored and generated by businesses are
handled properly.
The City will continue to
provide resources to ensure
that hazardous materials used,
stored and generated by
businesses are handled
properly.
PS 11.1.B
The City of Chowchilla shall coordinate with
responsible federal, state and local agencies to
identify and regulate the use, storage,
transportation and disposal of hazardous
materials.
The City will continue to
coordinate with responsible
federal, state and local
agencies to identify and
regulate the use, storage,
transportation and disposal of
hazardous materials.
Objective PS 12: Minimize risks
of personal injury associated
with potential hazards in the
urban environment.
Policy PS 12.1: Potential public
safety hazards associated with
irrigation canals and drainage
areas shall be minimized by
design, fencing or by restricting
public access.
PS 12.1.A
The City of Chowchilla shall develop and
establish design guidelines and standards for
publicly accessible irrigation facilities, sloughs,
detention basins and drainage facilities to
minimize potential for accidents and injury.
Design guidelines and standards shall promote
a visually attractive environment consistent
with the form and character of the
surroundings.
The City developed design
guidelines for sloughs during
the Industrial Park Specific
Plan process.
PS 12.1.B
The City of Chowchilla shall coordinate with
canal owners and operators with facilities in
the City Limits to minimize potential public
safety risks and to ensure, if applicable, the
facilities have properly placed hazard warning
signs.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
PS 12.1.C
The City of Chowchilla shall place applicable
hazard warning signs at City owned,
maintained, and / or operated storm drainage
The City is committed to
upholding the highest safety
standards at all city owned
facilities.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
59 facilities where a potential f public safety
hazard is present.
Objective PS 13: Protect the
community from potential
airport and air transportation
hazards.
Policy PS 13.6: The City of
Chowchilla shall maintain an
Airport Master Plan for the
Chowchilla Municipal Airport.
PS 13.6.A
The City of Chowchilla should consider
relocating the airport to a new location which
will allow expansion and operation without
interference from urban encroachment.
The City has and will continue
discussion in regards to
feasible airport relocating.
PS 13.6.B
As necessary, the City shall acquire land to
implement the Airport Master Plan by the
appropriate governmental agency.
The City is currently in the
process of updating their
airport master plan.
Policy PS 13.7: Chowchilla shall
maintain the Airport Land Use
Compatibility Plan for the
environs of the Chowchilla
Municipal Airport.
PS 13.7.A
The City of Chowchilla shall seek amendment
to the ALUC Plan to modernize the
requirements and standards for development
consistent with recommended guidance from
Caltrans.
The City looks forward to
participating in the next
ALUCP update process.
PS 13.7.B
The Land Use Element of the Chowchilla
General Plan and the Chowchilla Zoning
Ordinance shall be used to restrict potentially
hazardous land uses from being established
within Airport Safety Zones A and B1 of the
Chowchilla Municipal Airport.
The Zoning Ordinance was
updated to restrict potentially
hazardous land uses from
being established within
Airport Safety Zones A and B1
of the Chowchilla Municipal
Airport.
Objective PS 14: Provide Citywide safe pedestrian and
bicyclist environments.
Policy PS 14.1: Enhance and
maintain pedestrian safety
through the inclusion of welldesigned streets, sidewalks, crosswalks, traffic control
devices and school routes
throughout the City.
PS 14.1.A
The City of Chowchilla shall develop guidelines
and standards for the treatment of public
streetscape to improve pedestrian safety and
walkability. The guidelines and standards
should address street trees, street lighting,
street furniture, traffic calming and other
pertinent pedestrian safety and walkability
topics.
The City achieved this through
the development of the
Downtown Design Guidelines.
The City will continue to seek
ways to improve the city
streetscape as funding
opportunities arise.
PS 14.1.B
The City of Chowchilla shall identify and
inventory existing pedestrian safety and
walkability areas within the City area
developed areas within the City. The City shall
establish funding sources and priorities, and
set forth a phased improvement program to
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action as
funding becomes available.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
60 improve present pedestrian safety and
walkability deficiencies within the City.
Policy PS 14.2: All new and
redevelopment projects shall
provide reasonable means of
pedestrian and bicycle
accessibility and safety
provisions.
PS 14.2.A
The City of Chowchilla shall verify that all new
and redevelopment projects provide
appropriate pedestrian and bicycle
accessibility and safety provisions prior to
project approval.
The City will ensure that
appropriate pedestrian and
bicycle accessibility and safety
provisions are incorporated in
future projects.
PS 14.2.B
All grade separation projects shall implement
pedestrian and bicycle accessibility and safety
measures.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
Policy PS 14.3: Maintain an
Emergency Preparedness Plan.
PS 14.3.A
Update the Emergency Preparedness Plan
periodically to respond to changes in land use,
population and incorporated city boundaries,
including: evacuation routes; location of
critical facilities; peak load water supply
requirements; minimum road widths and
turning radii; and identification of the
population at risk.
The City will continue to
update their Emergency
Preparedness Plan as needed.
PS 14.3.B
Coordinate with Madera County, Federal
Emergency Management Agency, and Office of
Emergency Services in reducing community
risk in the event of a disaster through
Emergency Preparedness Plan preparation and
disaster drills.
The City will continue to work
with Madera County, Federal
Emergency Management
Agency, and Office of
Emergency Services in
reducing community risks.
PS 14.3.C
Coordinate City evacuation routes with
Madera County's emergency evacuation
routes.
The City will continue to
coordinate City evacuation
routes with Madera County's
emergency evacuation routes.
PS 14.3.D
Ensure that public and private water facilities
have adequate capacity to supply emergency
needs.
The City recently completed
an upgrade to City water
facilities to ensure the City
would have adequate water
supply and pressure to serve
the needs of the City.
Objective PS 15: Protect
Chowchilla from hazards
associated with the natural
environment.
Policy PS 15.1: Minimize risks of
personal injury and property
damage associated with natural
hazards.
PS 15.1.A
Participate in state and County programs to
educate residents regarding preparedness and
response to natural disasters, including
information describing procedures and
evacuation routes to be followed in the event
of a disaster.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
61 14.3.B
Design consideration shall be given for future
evacuation routes as a component of the
street construction and improvement
programs of the City. The City shall coordinate
its planning and design efforts with other
agencies including Madera County and
Caltrans.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action on an
as-needed basis.
14.3.C
Prepare a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
pursuant to the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000
to ensure that the City remains eligible for
emergency funding in the event of natural
hazards.
The City remains committed
to fulfilling this action as
funding becomes available.
Objective PS 16: To maintain
emergency preparedness
programs to protect the public.
Policy PS 16.6: The City shall
complete regularly scheduled
reviews and updates of its
emergency management plans.
PS 14.6.A
The City of Chowchilla shall conduct periodic
mock exercises using emergency response
systems to test the effectiveness of City
procedures included in the emergency
response plans.
The City will continue to do
this. The most recent mock
exercise done was for an
active shooter scenario.
Noise Element
Implementation Measure Status
Objective N 1: Minimize noise
levels from point sources
throughout the City and,
wherever possible, mitigate the
effects of noise to provide a
safe and healthful
environment.
Policy N 1.1: Continue to
enforce noise abatement and
control measures particularly
within residential
neighborhoods.
N 1.1.A
The Chowchilla Police Department shall
actively enforce the California Vehicle Code
sections relating to adequate vehicle mufflers
and modified exhaust systems. Exceptions may
be made for special events conducted in the
City.
The Police Department will
continue to enforce this noise
measure.
Policy N 1.2: Require the
inclusion of noise reducing
design features in development
consistent with standards in
Table N - 5, Table N - 6, and
Title 24 California Code of
Regulations.
N 1.2.A
The City shall utilize procedures for project
review and issuance of building permits to
ensure that noise mitigation measures
identified in an acoustical analysis are
implemented in the project design.
The City reviews and will
incorporate noise reduction
measures as needed.
Policy N 1.7: The City of
Chowchilla shall require noise
N 1.7.A The City will complete a CEQA
analysis for any applicable
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
62 analysis for new noise sensitive
development in areas subject to
noise levels greater than 65 dBA
CNEL as part of the
environmental review process
and to require mitigation
measures to reduce noise
impacts to acceptable levels.
The acoustical analysis shall be
the responsibility of the project
applicant and be prepared by a
qualified person experienced in
the fields of environmental
noise assessments. The
acoustical analysis shall address
affects of the project based on
existing conditions and build-out
conditions of the Chowchilla
2040 General Plan. (See Policy N
4.1).
In making a determination of impact under the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA),
consider an increase of four (4) or more
decibels to be “significant” if the resulting
noise level would exceed that described as
normally acceptable for the affected land use
in Table N - 5 and in Table N - 6 as applicable.
future project and will
incorporate any necessary
mitigation measures that are
identified through the CEQA
process.
Objective N 2: Minimize the
adverse effects of airport
related noise through proper
land use planning.
Policy N 2.3: The City of
Chowchilla shall coordinate with
Madera County Airport Land
Use Commission in maintaining
the noise contours for the
Chowchilla Municipal Airport as
notable changes in current or
projected operations are
planned. All new land use
proposals shall comply with the
land use policies of the Airport
Land Use Compatibility Plan for
Madera County Airports
(MCALUCP) for aircraftgenerated community noise.
N 2.3.A
All residential development within the area
included in the MCALUCP shall be restricted to
areas where outdoor noise levels are less 65
dB CNEL and shall be prohibited in those areas
which are greater than 65 dB CNEL except
those areas that were designated for
residential development prior to the adoption
of the General Plan Noise Standards. In those
areas, residential uses may be permitted
within the 65 to 70 dBA CNEL Noise Contour, if
the City Council makes findings that the use
was intended prior to the adoption of the
General Plan Noise Standards, that substantial
resources have been allocated to the planning
or construction of that use, that alternative
locations for such use are limited or not
reasonably available, and that notification to
the property owner and future tenants will be
given in a legally acceptable manner that
significant noise may be present at that
location.
The City will continue to use
the ALUCP as a tool when
reviewing projects to ensure
that any noise issues will be
mitigated.
Objective N 3: Minimize ground
transportation related noise
impacts through proper land
use planning.
N 3.7.A
Future development and redevelopment along
major transportation corridors shall be
required to demonstrate that the project will
not be subjected to unacceptable noise levels
at full road design capacity.
The City will continue to use
this measure during the
project review process to
ensure any potential noise
impacts are reduce to the
greatest extent possible.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
63 Policy N 3.7: The circulation
system shall be designed to
minimize excessive noise
impacts on sensitive land uses.
New development shall mitigate
noise impacts in accordance
with the requirements of the
noise element.
Policy N 3.8: The City of
Chowchilla shall seek to reduce
impacts from ground borne
vibrations associated with rail
operations by requiring the
habitable buildings are sited at
least 100- feet from the
centerline of the tracks. An
interior noise level of up to 45
dBA, with windows closed, shall
not be exceeded.
N 3.8.A
For habitable buildings located within 100 feet
from the centerline of railroad tracks,
development shall provide a study
demonstrating that ground borne vibration
issues associated with rail operations have
been adequately addressed (i.e., by building
orientation or construction techniques). This
study must demonstrate that an interior noise
level of up to 45 dBA will not be exceeded with
windows closed.
Groundborne vibration studies
will continue to be required
for all habitable buildings
located within 100-feet from
the centerline of railroad
tracks.
Policy N 3.10: Provide for
spatial separation and
necessary noise barriers
between railroads and
residential or other noise
sensitive uses.
N 3.10.A
Future development along the Union Pacific
Railroad Company mainline corridor and the
Chowchilla Airport should be buffered with
open space and / or noise barriers.
The City will continue to use
this measure during the
project review process to
ensure any potential noise
impacts are reduce to the
greatest extent possible.
Objective N 4: Establish
appropriate noise levels, design
standards, and noise reduction
techniques for all areas to
minimize the adverse effects of
noise.
Policy N 4.1: The City of
Chowchilla shall use the Land
Use Compatibility Guidelines for
Exterior Noise (measured in dBA
CNEL or Ldn) contained in Table
N - 5 and Table N - 6 in this
Element, as applicable, to direct
the siting, design, and insulation
of new development to reduce
exposure to excessive noise.
Where warranted, the City shall
employ discretionary review of
new development to ensure that
the community will be protected
from excessive noise levels. The
N 4.1.A
Non-transportation noise: Noise created by
non-transportation noise sources shall be
mitigated so as not to exceed the exterior
noise level standards of Table N - 6. Where
proposed non-transportation noise sources are
likely to produce noise levels exceeding the
performance standards on Table N - 6, an
acoustical analysis shall be required as part of
the environmental review process so that
noise mitigation may be included in the project
design.
The City will continue to use
this measure during the
project review process to
ensure any potential noise
impacts are reduce to the
greatest extent possible.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
64 City shall evaluate potential
noise impacts and recommend
mitigation measures through
discretionary review procedures
such as environmental reviews,
design review and evaluation of
use permits.
N 4.1.B
Non-transportation noise: New development
of noise sensitive land uses shall not be
allowed where the noise level due to nontransportation noise sources will exceed the standards of Table N - 6. Where noise sensitive
land uses are proposed in areas exposed to
existing or projected exterior nontransportation noise levels exceeding the performance standards of Table N - 6, an
acoustical analysis shall be required so that
noise mitigation may be included in the project
design at the cost of the developer.
The City will continue to use
this measure during the
project review process to
ensure any potential noise
impacts are reduce to the
greatest extent possible.
Policy N 4.3: The City of
Chowchilla shall grant
exceptions to the noise
standards for commercial or
industrial uses only if a recorded
noise easement is conveyed by
the affected property owners.
N 4.3.A
Project applicants for project developments in
areas identified as either conditionally
unacceptable range or normally unacceptable
shall prepare an acoustical analysis and, if
necessary, identify possible mitigation
measures to reduce the effects to noise levels
to acceptable levels.
These noise analysis reports
will continue to be required as
necessary.
Policy N 4.6: The City of
Chowchilla shall limit
construction activities to the
hours of 7:00 am to 7:00 pm,
Monday through Saturday. No
construction shall occur on
Sundays or national holidays
without a permit from the City.
N 4.6.A
For all temporary construction, demolition or
maintenance noise and other necessary shortterm noise events, the stationary noise standards in Policy N 4.1, above may be
exceeded within the receiving land use by:
1. 5 dBA for a cumulative period of no more
than fifteen (15) minutes in any hour.
2. 10 dBA for a cumulative period of no more
than five (5) minutes in any hour.
3. 15 dBA for a cumulative period of no more
than one (1) minute in any given hour.
4. In order to allow for temporary
construction, demolition or maintenance noise
and other necessary short-term noise events,
the stationary noise standards in Policy N 4.1
The City will continue to
incorporate these measures
for development projects.
City of Chowchilla General Plan Annual Progress Report
65 above, shall not be exceeded within the
receiving land use by more than 15 dBA any
period of time.
Objective N 5: Adopt design
standards and identify effective
noise attenuation programs to
prevent noise or reduce noise to
acceptable levels.
Policy N 5.4: The City of
Chowchilla shall require
mitigation measures to
minimize noise impacts on
surrounding areas as part of the
permit review process for land
uses of a temporary nature,
such as fairs or exhibits. The
noise level from the temporary
use should be in conformance
with noise level guidelines for
nearby land uses.
N 5.4.A
Promote use of noise insulation materials in
new construction and major rehabilitation.
The City will continue to
promote use of noise
insulation materials in new
construction and major
rehabilitation.
N 5.4.B
Identify noise attenuation programs for
mitigation of noise adjacent to existing
residential areas, including such measures as
wider setbacks, intense landscaping, and
building orientation away from the noise
source.
The City will continue to use
this measure during the
project review process to
ensure any potential noise
impacts are reduce to the
greatest extent possible.
Objective N 6: Reduce noise
levels from traffic.
Policy N 6.5: The City of
Chowchilla shall discourage the
use of un-landscaped sound
walls. Developers / builders are
required to provide for
landscaping sound walls as part
of the normal improvement
requirements.
N 6.5.A
The construction of sound walls will be
considered where noise mitigation to
acceptable levels by other means is not
feasible.
The City will continue to
incorporate these measures
for development projects.